What is meant by "biological control" in pest management?

Biological control in pest management refers to the use of natural predators or pathogens to manage pest populations. This approach harnesses the existing ecosystem and leverages the natural relationships between organisms to reduce pest numbers without the need for synthetic chemicals. For instance, introducing predatory insects that feed on crop-damaging pests can help maintain pest levels within acceptable thresholds, thereby protecting crop yields and minimizing environmental impact.

The effectiveness of biological control lies in its sustainability; it often results in longer-term pest management solutions, fostering an ecological balance. Additionally, using natural biological agents can reduce the likelihood of resistance development in pests, a common issue associated with chemical pesticides.

This strategy contrasts with the other options presented. For example, employing chemical pesticides generally leads to immediate but potentially short-lived effects and may have harmful side effects on non-target organisms and the environment. Using genetic modification in crops can enhance their resistance to pests but does not directly involve controlling existing pest populations through natural means. Implementing cultural practices, while beneficial in managing pest populations, does not specifically involve the use of natural predators or pathogens as biological control does. Thus, the concept of biological control is fundamentally rooted in utilizing these natural mechanisms for pest management.