Which of the following contributes to the resistance of mosquito populations to pesticides?

Continuous exposure to the same type of pesticide is a major contributor to the development of resistance in mosquito populations. When mosquitoes are regularly exposed to the same chemical, those individuals that have a natural genetic resistance can survive and breed, leading to a population that is increasingly tolerant of that pesticide. Over time, this selective pressure results in the predominance of resistant individuals, making the pesticide less effective.

In contrast, frequent community clean-up activities and the use of diverse control methods can help reduce mosquito breeding habitats and populations, thus lowering the reliance on any single pesticide. Following label instructions for application ensures efficacy and safety but does not directly contribute to resistance development. All of these factors are important for effective pest management, but consistent exposure to the same pesticide is particularly critical in understanding why resistance occurs.