In IPM, which term describes using living organisms to suppress pests?

In IPM, which term describes using living organisms to suppress pests?

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

Answer: (B)

Using living organisms to suppress pests is biological control, a key tactic in IPM. It works by harnessing natural enemies—predators, parasitoids, and pathogens—that attack pest species and reduce their numbers over time. Examples include releasing lady beetles to eat aphids or using parasitic wasps to control caterpillar pests, and allowing beneficial microbes to infect pests. This approach can be self-sustaining and reduces reliance on chemicals, aligning with IPM goals of environmentally sound pest management. Other IPM methods include cultural control (changing farming practices to deter pests), chemical control (pesticide use), and mechanical control (physical removal or barriers).

Using living organisms to suppress pests is biological control, a key tactic in IPM. It works by harnessing natural enemies—predators, parasitoids, and pathogens—that attack pest species and reduce their numbers over time. Examples include releasing lady beetles to eat aphids or using parasitic wasps to control caterpillar pests, and allowing beneficial microbes to infect pests. This approach can be self-sustaining and reduces reliance on chemicals, aligning with IPM goals of environmentally sound pest management. Other IPM methods include cultural control (changing farming practices to deter pests), chemical control (pesticide use), and mechanical control (physical removal or barriers).