What is biological control?

Biological control refers to the strategy of using living organisms to manage and reduce pest populations in an eco-friendly manner. This approach leverages natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to target pest species, thereby decreasing their numbers without the reliance on chemical pesticides. The primary goal is to create an ecological balance where beneficial organisms can thrive while suppressing harmful pests.

In contrast, the other options focus on methods that do not utilize living organisms for pest management. Chemical pesticides aim to eliminate pests through synthetic substances, and while effective, they can also pose risks to non-target species and the environment. Installing physical barriers involves preventing pests from accessing crops, which may be effective but does not directly address existing pest populations. Sanitation practices focus on improving the overall health of crops by removing potential pest habitats or food sources, but again, this does not involve the direct use of biological agents for pest control. By understanding the distinction that biological control is fundamentally about utilizing natural living entities, one can appreciate its role in integrated pest management strategies.