Which type of pesticide is specifically used to kill insects?

Insecticides are specifically formulated to target and kill insects. These pesticides work through various modes of action, such as interfering with the insect's nervous system, disrupting their growth or reproduction, or causing dehydration. They are critical in agricultural practices for the protection of crops from insect pests, which can cause significant damage and yield loss if not controlled.

Herbicides, on the other hand, are designed to kill or inhibit the growth of unwanted plants or weeds, while fungicides target fungi that can cause diseases in plants. Rodenticides are used to control rodent populations, such as rats and mice. Each of these pesticides serves a distinct purpose in pest management, making insecticides the appropriate choice for specifically addressing insect infestations.