Which pest control strategy involves the use of living organisms to control pest populations?

Biological control is a strategy that focuses on using living organisms, such as predators, parasites, and pathogens, to manage pest populations. This approach aims to introduce or enhance natural enemies of the pests in order to reduce their numbers and mitigate damage to the environment or crops.

The use of biological control is based on ecological principles, where the interactions among different organisms in an ecosystem can be leveraged to naturally keep pest populations in check. For example, releasing ladybugs in a garden can help control aphid populations, as ladybugs feed on them. This method is often seen as sustainable and environmentally friendly, as it reduces reliance on chemical pesticides and promotes biodiversity.

Other strategies, like mechanical control, involve physical methods such as traps or barriers to remove or block pests. Cultural control includes practices that enhance crop health and resistance, such as crop rotation or proper sanitation. Physical control is similar to mechanical but may also include techniques like altering the environment (e.g., changing water levels) to deter pests. While these strategies can be effective, they do not utilize living organisms in the manner that biological control does, which makes biological control distinct and often a preferred method in integrated pest management.