How do repellents function in pest control?

Repellents are designed to create a barrier that prevents pests from entering a specific area. This barrier can affect the pest's ability to locate food, shelter, or breeding sites, thereby reducing the likelihood of an infestation. Repellents often work through scents or other stimuli that pests find unpleasant or confusing, allowing for effective management without necessarily killing the pests.

The correct answer highlights the primary function of repellents, which is to deter pests rather than eliminate them or enhance their reproductive capabilities. Understanding how repellents work is crucial for integrated pest management strategies, which aim to prevent or reduce pest populations while minimizing harm to the environment and non-target organisms.