What is it called when a pest population rapidly rebounds in the absence of natural enemies?

The term used when a pest population rapidly rebounds in the absence of natural enemies is referred to as pest resurgence. This phenomenon typically occurs when control measures that target a specific pest inadvertently remove its natural predators or parasites. As a result, the pest population can thrive unchecked, leading to an increase in numbers that can exceed the levels prior to the control efforts.

Understanding pest resurgence is crucial for effective pest management as it highlights the importance of maintaining biodiversity and the balance of ecological interactions. If natural enemies are removed, the likelihood of a sudden spike in pest numbers increases, which can create more significant problems for agriculture, forestry, or landscape management in the future. This concept underscores why integrated pest management strategies focus on both control and conservation of natural enemies.