Which of the following are identified as the four main groups of pests?

The four main groups of pests are correctly identified as Weeds, Invertebrates, Disease Agents, and Vertebrates. This classification encompasses a wide range of organisms that agricultural and environmental professionals aim to manage or control due to their potential harmful impacts on crops, livestock, and human health.

Weeds are unwanted plants that compete with crops for resources and can reduce agricultural productivity. Invertebrates include insects and other organisms that can damage crops or transmit diseases. Disease agents refer to pathogens like fungi, bacteria, and viruses that can harm plants and animals, leading to significant health and yield issues. Lastly, vertebrates encompass a variety of animals, such as rodents and birds, which may damage crops or spread diseases.

Understanding these categories helps in developing appropriate pest management strategies, as each group requires different control measures. Therefore, recognizing the distinctions among these major pest types is essential for effective pest management in agricultural practices.