Which term describes pesticides that move within an organism?

• A. Systemic
• B. Contact
• C. Broad-spectrum
• D. Narrow-spectrum

Answer: (A)

Systemic describes pesticides that move within an organism. They are absorbed and then transported through the plant or pest, so the chemical reaches tissues away from where it was applied. In plants, this means the substance moves via the vascular system to leaves, stems, or roots, protecting parts the pest would feed on even if those parts weren’t directly treated. This internal movement makes them effective against pests that hide inside tissues or feed on new growth. By contrast, contact pesticides require direct contact with the pest and do not spread inside the organism. Broad-spectrum and narrow-spectrum describe how many pest species are affected, not movement.