Oklahoma Service Technician Practice Exam

What is a key advantage of using biological control in pest management?

1. It eliminates the need for any other methods

2. It often maintains ecological balance

3. It requires no monitoring

4. It can be implemented quickly

The correct answer is: It often maintains ecological balance

A key advantage of using biological control in pest management is that it often maintains ecological balance. Biological control involves the use of natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to manage pest populations. This approach tends to promote a healthier ecosystem by minimizing chemical inputs, which can disrupt non-target species and lead to potential environmental harm. By encouraging the population of beneficial organisms that naturally prey on pests, biological control methods can create a self-regulating system that sustains the health and diversity of the ecosystem. This balance can help prevent pest outbreaks while supporting the overall biodiversity of the area, which is essential for resilient ecosystems. In contrast, completely eliminating the need for any other pest management methods is unrealistic; biological control is usually part of an integrated approach that may also include cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods. Additionally, while biological control methods can sometimes be implemented over a period of time, they generally do require monitoring to assess the effectiveness and potential impacts on other species. Lastly, the implementation of biological control strategies can take longer to show results compared to some immediate control measures, as populations of natural enemies need time to establish and become effective.