Which pesticide category is aimed at managing pest populations through indirect means, such as attracting or repelling?

The category aimed at managing pest populations through indirect means, such as attracting or repelling, is pheromones. Pheromones are chemical substances released by organisms that can influence the behavior of other members of the same species. In pest management, pheromones can be used to lure pests into traps or to disrupt mating behaviors, thereby reducing pest populations without the need for direct chemical application. This method is often considered environmentally friendly and part of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, as it minimizes the use of traditional pesticides and can target specific pests without affecting non-target species.

The other categories serve different purposes. Nematicides are specifically designed to kill nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can harm plant roots. Ovicides target and kill the eggs of pests, while miticides are used to control mite populations by directly affecting the mites themselves. These options focus on more direct methods of pest control rather than the indirect behavioral manipulation that pheromones provide.