What are "non-target organisms" in herbicide application?

Non-target organisms refer specifically to animals or plants that are not intended to be affected by the herbicide during its application. In herbicide use, the primary goal is to target specific weed species without harming other desirable plants or wildlife in the vicinity. Recognizing non-target organisms is important for environmental protection and maintaining biodiversity, as herbicide applications can inadvertently impact these organisms, leading to unintended ecological consequences. This distinction helps in planning and applying herbicides in a way that minimizes damage to the surrounding ecosystems while effectively controlling targeted weeds.