Question

Integrated pest management (IPM) is based on
(a) Biological control of pest
(b) Mechanical control
(c) Carefully timed use of pesticides
(d) All of the above

Answer 1

The 4 main categories of pest controls form IPM's foundation: cultural, biological, mechanical/physical, and pesticide controls. The four work hand in hand to produce targeted, effective, long-term pest management, and every category plays a special role.

Correct step by step answer:
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a method of selection, integration, and implementation of pest control that supports predicted economic, ecological, and sociological consequences. The aim of IPM is to reduce the use of synthetic organic pesticides. Integrated Pest Management takes the advantage of all appropriate pest management such as biopesticides, mechanical control methods, and the judicious use of pesticides.
So, the correct answer is, ‘All of the above.’

Additional Information:
Under IPM, a pest is any organism you do not want around. This not only includes harmful bugs but also includes weeds, disease- causing pathogens, and uninvited critters, etc. For effective, integrated pest management, it includes the subsequent tasks:
- Identify good and bad bugs.
- Monitor pest activity regularly.
- Set thresholds for tolerable pest damage with limits!
- Establish a plan before pests cause concern.
- Take prompt, effective action when needed.

Note:
- Cultural control is the non- chemical management of pests using manual or mechanical means for making a change in the soil and crop environment to discourage pest establishment.
- Biological control is where predatory or parasitic insects and mites referred to as ‘beneficial’ or ‘good bugs’ help to regulate chewing and sucking insects that affect the standard and productivity of crops by killing these pests or disrupting their breeding cycle.
- Chemical control involves the utilization of pesticides within the management of pests. It is utilized in IPM when biological and cultural control is not enough to guard the productivity of the crop. Where chemical control is required, selective insecticides are chosen in which they target the pest, leaving the beneficial population unharmed.