Which of the following is a pest management method used in IPM that involves living organisms?

Which of the following is a pest management method used in IPM that involves living organisms?

• A. Biological control
• B. Mechanical control
• C. Cultural control
• D. Regulatory control

Answer: (A)

Biological control is the method that uses living organisms to manage pests. In IPM, this approach relies on natural enemies—predators, parasites, or pathogens—to suppress pest populations, either by introducing them, augmenting their numbers, or protecting existing beneficial species. This differs from mechanical control, which uses physical means like traps or barriers; cultural control, which changes farming practices to make the environment less favorable for pests; and regulatory control, which uses laws, quarantines, or restrictions to limit pest spread. Since the question focuses on a method that involves living organisms, biological control is the correct choice.

Biological control is the method that uses living organisms to manage pests. In IPM, this approach relies on natural enemies—predators, parasites, or pathogens—to suppress pest populations, either by introducing them, augmenting their numbers, or protecting existing beneficial species. This differs from mechanical control, which uses physical means like traps or barriers; cultural control, which changes farming practices to make the environment less favorable for pests; and regulatory control, which uses laws, quarantines, or restrictions to limit pest spread. Since the question focuses on a method that involves living organisms, biological control is the correct choice.