Pest control is the management of a species defined as a pest, a member of a species that impacts adversely on human activities. The human response is to attempt to manage the pest species, so as to reduce the negative effects, or to attempt to benefit from the positive effects, of its activities. Pest control methods may include repellents, deterrents, physical barriers, habitat modification, biological control, genetic control, and chemical control. Pest management is an important part of agriculture, as pests can cause significant damage to crops and livestock. It is also important in human health, as pests can transmit diseases and cause other health problems.
Pest control has been practiced for centuries, with early methods including the use of fire, smoke, and poisons. In the modern era, pest control has become more sophisticated, with the development of new technologies and methods. However, pests continue to be a major problem, and pest control remains an important part of human society.