What is the function of a bactericide?

A bactericide is a type of pesticide specifically designed to kill bacteria. This can be important in agricultural and horticultural practices where bacterial diseases can threaten crops, leading to reduced yields and quality. By targeting bacteria, bactericides help manage and control these pathogens, ensuring healthy plant growth and productivity.

When considering the other options, the focus of a bactericide remains solely on bacteria, making it distinct from fungicides, which target fungi, and virucides, which are meant to eliminate viruses. The option about preventing plant decay might relate to certain products that use bactericides in conjunction with fungicides or other agents, but it does not accurately capture the primary role of a bactericide. Therefore, identifying the primary function of a bactericide as killing bacteria is essential for effective pest management and understanding its use in agriculture.