Which term describes the pest management practice of using gas to control pests in an entire area?

The term that describes the pest management practice of using gas to control pests in an entire area is fumigation. This method involves enclosing a structure or area and introducing a fumigant, which penetrates all spaces to eliminate pests effectively. Fumigation is particularly useful for treating widespread infestations or areas that are difficult to access through other treatment methods.

Fumigation works because the gas fills the entire area, reaching pests hidden deep within materials or voids, such as wood or furniture, where they may not be exposed to other types of pesticide applications. It is highly effective against a variety of pests, including termites, and is often used in industrial settings, warehouses, and homes, making it a preferred option for comprehensive pest control.

Other pest management practices, such as termiticides, focus on applying liquid treatments to specific areas and may not provide the same level of penetration as fumigation. Insecticidal baiting targets specific insect populations through bait systems, which layer control across a timeline rather than instantaneously. Physical barriers are structural solutions designed to prevent pest entry but do not involve the use of gas or chemicals to eliminate existing infestations.