What do disease-causing microorganisms do in pest management?

In the context of pest management, disease-causing microorganisms play a significant role in suppressing insect populations. This occurs through the introduction of pathogens like bacteria, fungi, or viruses that specifically target and infect pest species. When these microorganisms are applied to control pests, they can lead to pest mortality by infecting them and disrupting their life processes.

Utilizing disease-causing microorganisms aligns with Integrated Pest Management principles, which aim to minimize reliance on chemical pesticides. By harnessing biological control mechanisms, these microorganisms help manage pest populations sustainably and can lead to reduced environmental impact. This method can be especially effective against specific pests, and the natural selection pressures they exert can prevent resistance development in the longer term compared to chemical methods.

In contrast, the other options relate to functions that do not primarily involve disease-causing microorganisms in a pest management context. They do not enhance plant growth, increase pest resistance, or provide nutrients to plants; rather, they focus on mechanisms that target and control pest populations.