What are "emerging pests"?

Emerging pests are defined as species that are increasing in prevalence or expanding their geographical range, often due to various environmental changes, such as climate shifts, changes in land use, or the introduction of new agricultural practices. This increase allows these pests to have a larger impact on crops, ecosystems, and pest management strategies. As they become more prevalent, they might pose new challenges for pest control and require updated strategies and regulations to manage their effects efficiently.

The other options describe conditions of pest populations that do not fit the definition of emerging pests. For instance, pests that are decreasing in population do not pose new threats, while stable populations indicate no significant change in pest dynamics. In contrast, pests that have been eradicated are no longer a concern. Therefore, the key characteristic of emerging pests is the noticeable increase in their presence or geographical spread.