What is a chemical capable of preventing animal reproduction called?

A chemical that can prevent animal reproduction is known as a chemosterilant. Chemosterilants function by interfering with the reproductive processes of specific organisms, typically targeting their ability to reproduce effectively. This type of chemical is used in pest management when the goal is to reduce pest populations over time without necessarily killing the adults outright. Instead, it focuses on sterilizing the pests, thereby decreasing the number of new individuals that can contribute to the population.

In contrast, insecticides specifically target insects to kill them, while pesticides encompass a broader range of chemicals used to kill or control various pests, including insects, weeds, and fungi. Fungicides, on the other hand, specifically target fungal organisms. Therefore, these other terms do not accurately describe a chemical that prevents reproduction.