Which of the following factors is most likely to contribute to pest outbreaks?

Favorable weather conditions are a crucial factor that can significantly contribute to pest outbreaks. Pests are often highly responsive to changes in their environment, and certain weather conditions can create an optimal climate for their survival, reproduction, and spread. For instance, warm temperatures and increased humidity can enhance the growth rates of many pest species, leading to population explosions. Additionally, weather events such as heavy rains or drought can affect pest behavior and lifecycle stages, further contributing to outbreaks.

Crop rotation practices, the presence of natural predators, and organic farming methods generally promote healthier ecosystems and can help manage or reduce pest populations. These practices often aim to disrupt pest life cycles, enhance biodiversity, and support beneficial organisms, which can mitigate the risks of pest outbreaks rather than exacerbate them. In contrast, favorable weather conditions tend to create an inviting environment for pests, making it the most significant factor in this context.