What detection method is sensitive to low levels of bedbug infestation, but is not fool-proof?

Prepare for the Maine Pesticide Structural Licensing Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Canine scent detection is considered highly effective for identifying low levels of bedbug infestation due to a dog's exceptional sense of smell, which is estimated to be up to 100,000 times more acute than that of humans. This heightened olfactory capability allows trained dogs to detect even small quantities of bedbug pheromones or the presence of their eggs, making them useful in pinpointing infestations that may not yet be visible to the naked eye.

However, while canine detection is an efficient tool for bedbug inspection, it is not completely fool-proof. Factors that can affect the accuracy include the dog's training, the environmental conditions, and the handler's management of the search. Additionally, false positives can occur, meaning that a dog may alert to the presence of bedbugs when none are present, or they may miss infestations due to various factors, including distractions or fatigue. This highlights that while canine scent detection is a powerful method, it should ideally be used in conjunction with other inspection techniques for a comprehensive evaluation of bedbug presence.

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