Which definition fits the term "pest"?

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The definition of "pest" as an organism that occurs in large enough numbers to cause economic damage is correct because it encompasses a wide variety of organisms beyond just insects. Pests can include weeds, fungi, rodents, and other species that impact agricultural productivity or the economy by competing with crops for resources, spreading diseases, or physically damaging plants. The economic aspect is essential, as a pest may not be harmful in small numbers but can become a significant problem when its population grows. This definition captures the essence of pest management in agriculture and ecological studies, where the focus is often on managing populations that have reached a threshold where they cause harm or loss, rather than labeling all organisms as pests based solely on their presence or their potential harm in isolation.

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