What is a significant disadvantage of using fumigants?

The selection of the option highlighting that fumigants can harm beneficial organisms accurately identifies a significant disadvantage associated with their use. Fumigants are volatile compounds used to eliminate pests, pathogens, and weeds in the soil or within stored products. While they can effectively control a wide range of harmful organisms, their use is not selective; they can also affect non-target species, including beneficial organisms such as pollinators, decomposers, and natural pest predators.

The impact on beneficial organisms can lead to long-term ecological imbalances, reducing the overall health of the ecosystem within the treated area. For instance, the loss of predators that naturally control pest populations can lead to an increase in pests over time, requiring further pesticide applications.

Fumigants are not particularly cheap to apply, as their use may require specialized equipment and safety measures to protect workers and the environment. Their effectiveness against viral infections is not a primary advantage, as fumigants are more effective against insects and soil-borne pathogens rather than viruses. Moreover, while fumigants can technically be applied during the growing season, doing so may pose additional risks to crops and beneficial organisms, making their seasonal application problematic. Thus, the identification of potential harm to beneficial organisms stands out as a major