Which IPM method involves breeding or releasing resistant varieties or sterile insects to manage pests?

Which IPM method involves breeding or releasing resistant varieties or sterile insects to manage pests?

• A. Genetic control
• B. Cultural control
• C. Environmental modification
• D. Biological control

Answer: (A)

Using genetics to influence pest populations is the main idea here. Breeding or deploying varieties that resist pests changes the plant-pest interaction at the genetic level, so pests have a harder time feeding or surviving, which lowers damage without extra chemicals. Releasing sterile insects uses the same genetic principle: these insects mate but produce no offspring, so each generation has fewer pests and the population declines over time. This approach focuses on manipulating inherited traits—either in the crop or the pest—to manage the problem. In contrast, cultural control changes farming practices, environmental modification alters habitat conditions, and biological control relies on natural enemies rather than genetics.

Using genetics to influence pest populations is the main idea here. Breeding or deploying varieties that resist pests changes the plant-pest interaction at the genetic level, so pests have a harder time feeding or surviving, which lowers damage without extra chemicals. Releasing sterile insects uses the same genetic principle: these insects mate but produce no offspring, so each generation has fewer pests and the population declines over time. This approach focuses on manipulating inherited traits—either in the crop or the pest—to manage the problem. In contrast, cultural control changes farming practices, environmental modification alters habitat conditions, and biological control relies on natural enemies rather than genetics.