Which of the following is a common method of pest control in Integrated Pest Management?

In Integrated Pest Management (IPM), biological control techniques are a key method used to manage pest populations. This approach incorporates the use of natural predators, parasitoids, or pathogens to control pest species and reduce their impact on crops or the environment. By utilizing these biological agents, IPM aims to maintain pest populations at acceptable levels while minimizing the reliance on chemical pesticides, thus promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Biological control can include introducing beneficial insects that feed on the pest species, using microbial agents that specifically target pests, or encouraging the natural enemies of pests through habitat modification. This method not only helps in reducing economic losses caused by pests but also reflects a holistic approach to pest management, focusing on ecological balance and the health of the ecosystem.

In contrast, exclusive use of chemical pesticides does not align with the principles of IPM, which seeks to integrate various control methods rather than rely solely on chemicals. Aerial spraying of pesticides may also be effective in certain situations but lacks the nuanced approach found in IPM, which emphasizes sustainability and minimizes environmental impact. Annual harvesting practices relate more to crop management than pest control specifically, making them less relevant in the context of IPM strategies. Thus, biological control techniques stand out as a foundational component of Integrated Pest Management.