Which type of pesticide specifically targets the nervous system of insects?

The chosen answer, which is neurotoxic pesticides, is correct because these pesticides are specifically designed to disrupt the normal function of the nervous systems in insects. They interfere with neurotransmission, leading to paralysis or death in targeted pests. This effect is accomplished through various mechanisms, such as blocking or mimicking neurotransmitters, which are essential for transmitting nerve impulses.

Understanding that neurotoxic pesticides are formulated to affect insects is important. In contrast, herbicides are intended to kill or inhibit the growth of plants; fungicides target fungi and are used to control mold and other fungal diseases; while rodenticides are designed to control rodent populations. Each of these other categories of pesticides has a different target organism and mode of action, which distinguishes them from neurotoxic pesticides that focus on the nervous systems of insects.