What does the term 'commensal' refer to in pest management?

The term 'commensal' refers to organisms that have adapted to live alongside humans, often benefiting from this close association without causing harm. In the context of pest management, commensal pests typically include species that thrive in human environments, such as rodents and certain insects, taking advantage of resources like food, shelter, and warmth that humans provide. This relationship tends to be one of cohabitation, where the pests benefit while humans may experience varying levels of inconvenience or problems due to their presence.

In contrast, pests that live in the soil are not necessarily commensal, as they may not have a direct relationship with humans. Similarly, pests that are naturally aggressive do not fit the commensal definition because their behavior is indicative of predatory or competitive interactions rather than a benign coexistence. Lastly, pests that only eat plants do not encompass the full extent of commensal relationships, as they may not necessarily interact with humans in this beneficial or neutral manner. Thus, the focus on adaptation to human environments underscores the meaning of 'commensal' in pest management.