DDT was once considered a "silver bullet" that would permanently eradicate insect pests. Instead, DDT is largely useless against many insects. Which of these would have prevented this evolution of DDT resistance in insect pests?
A) All habitats should have received applications of DDT at about the same time.
B) The frequency of DDT application should have been higher.
C) None of the insect pests would have genetic variations that resulted in DDT resistance.
D) DDT application should have been continual.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The evolution of resistance to DDT in insect pests is due to genetic variations that result in some individuals being able to survive exposure to the chemical. Therefore, the only way to prevent such evolution would be if none of the insect pests had genetic variations that result in DDT resistance. Choices A, B, and D would not have prevented the evolution of DDT resistance, as insects could still develop resistance over time due to genetic variation even if DDT were applied at the same time, at a higher frequency, or continuously.

DDT Was Once Considered a "Silver Bullet" That Would Permanently