Which pest control method is considered a biological approach?

The biological approach to pest control involves leveraging natural organisms to manage pest populations effectively. This method relies on natural predators, parasitoids, or pathogens that can reduce pest numbers without the use of synthetic chemicals. By utilizing these natural enemies, the ecosystem is supported and balanced, often resulting in a more sustainable long-term solution for pest management.

For instance, introducing ladybugs to control aphid populations is a classic example of this strategy, as ladybugs are natural predators of aphids and can reduce their numbers efficiently. This method promotes ecological balance and reduces the risk associated with chemical pesticide use, such as potential harm to non-target species, resistance development in pests, and environmental contamination.

In contrast, using chemical pesticides targets pests directly through synthetic means, and traps and barriers physically obstruct pests but do not involve biological interactions. Similarly, synthetic pheromones do not involve biological processes but instead manipulate pest behavior through chemical signaling. These alternatives do not align with the principles of biological pest control, which fundamentally focuses on using organisms in a natural ecosystem to regulate pest populations.