What is the function of a desiccant in pest control?

In pest control, the primary function of a desiccant is to remove moisture from pests. Desiccants are substances that promote drying by absorbing moisture effectively. When pests, such as insects or other arthropods, come into contact with a desiccant, it extracts water from their bodies, leading to dehydration and ultimately death. This mechanism is particularly effective against pests that have a high moisture content and are susceptible to desiccation.

While promoting growth and enhancing reproduction are important aspects of pest management, desiccants do not serve these purposes. Similarly, attracting beneficial insects is not a function of desiccants, as their role is specifically to target and eliminate harmful pests through moisture removal rather than fostering the growth of beneficial species.