Question

Biological control of pests is

• A. polluting
• B. highly expensive
• C. self-perpetuating
• D. toxic

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

self-perpetuating

Answer 2

The pest management that uses the natural predators, parasites and competitors to eliminate or regulate the growth of pests is biological control of pests. The biological control agents are not reapplied periodically, they have the tendency to establish a self-sustaining population and thus persist in the environment. Some of the features of biological control to be self perpetuating are as follows:

1. Establish natural enemies: When biological controls are introduced in the ecosystem, when favorable conditions are given, they tend to establish a population. This population can continue growing and control the pest over time.
2. Reproduction: The population will establish themselves and then reproduce to increase their number. The population will eventually feed on the pest and thus grow and reproduce.
3. Adaption: There is a technique of co evolution and adaptation. In this the predator modifies itself as the prey changes with time. They both co-evolve. This will lead to a more sustainable control system.

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