What are commonly encountered organisms that predictably cause injury to plants called?

Organisms that predictably cause injury to plants are known as key pests. This term refers to specific species that have established a reputation for consistently damaging crops or other plants within a particular ecosystem or agricultural setting. These pests often require management strategies to mitigate their impact on plant health and yield.

Key pests can include insects, diseases, and pathogens that are often present at critical times in the plant's growth cycle, making them significant variables in agricultural and horticultural production. Recognition of key pests helps arborists and horticulturists implement targeted control measures, leading to healthier plants and improved outcomes.

In contrast, some other organisms listed may not necessarily cause predictable damage. For instance, invasive species can disrupt ecosystems but are not always directly harmful to plants in a predictable manner. Competing species might compete for resources but may not directly cause injury. Beneficial organisms typically provide support to plant health, such as pollinators or natural pest predators, rather than causing harm.