What does the term 'toxicity' refer to in relation to pesticides?

In the context of pesticides, 'toxicity' specifically refers to the ability of a substance to cause harmful effects on living organisms. This includes a range of potential outcomes, from mild irritation to severe health hazards, depending on the dosage and exposure. Understanding pesticide toxicity is crucial for ensuring safe application practices and minimizing the risks to human health and non-target species, such as beneficial insects, wildlife, and pets.

While other concepts related to pesticides, such as production costs, environmental impact, and effectiveness on pests, are also important, they do not define the term 'toxicity.' The focus on harmful effects distinguishes toxicity from these other factors, making it a critical consideration in the evaluation and regulation of pesticide use.