What is mechanical control in pest management?

Mechanical control in pest management refers to the use of devices and machines to physically remove pests or modify their environment to make it less conducive to pest infestations. This can include barriers, traps, and other equipment designed to capture or deter pests without the use of chemicals.

For example, using a physical barrier like a mesh netting can prevent insects from accessing crops, while traps can help capture rodents or other pests without the need for chemical pesticides. This method emphasizes a hands-on approach to managing pests and is often considered an eco-friendly option because it minimizes chemical use and can have less impact on non-target organisms.

In contrast, the other options involve chemical or biological methods of control: chemical treatments involve the application of pesticides, beneficial organisms refer to biological control methods, and natural substances typically involve repellents or deterrents without physical manipulation. Therefore, the distinction of mechanical control lies in its reliance on physical methods rather than chemical or biological interventions.