What is the purpose of using biological control in pest management?

Biological control in pest management focuses on the use of living organisms to manage pest populations. This method utilizes natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to suppress pest species, leading to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach compared to chemical pesticides. For instance, introducing ladybugs can help control aphid populations, thereby reducing the need for synthetic chemical applications.

This strategy aligns with integrated pest management (IPM) principles, where the goal is to maintain pest populations below economic damage levels while promoting ecological balance. Using beneficial organisms is effective because it can lead to long-term pest suppression without the negative environmental impacts associated with chemical treatments. By harnessing nature's own systems, biological control not only helps in managing pests but also supports the preservation of biodiversity.