Which of the following could be considered a physical control method in pest management?

Which of the following could be considered a physical control method in pest management?

• A. Using chemical repellents
• B. Implementing biological controls
• C. Setting traps for rodents
• D. Applying pesticides on crops

Answer: (C)

The option that refers to setting traps for rodents is considered a physical control method in pest management because it involves the direct use of barriers or devices to prevent pests from causing harm, without the use of chemicals or biological agents. Traps physically capture or kill pests, thereby reducing their population and mitigating the damage they can cause. This method is often favored in integrated pest management because it can provide targeted control, minimizing the impact on non-target species and reducing the potential for pesticide resistance. In contrast, using chemical repellents falls under a chemical control method, which involves substances that deter pests, while implementing biological controls refers to utilizing natural predators or parasites to manage pest populations. Applying pesticides on crops is also classified as a chemical control method, involving the use of chemicals to directly kill or repel pests. Each of these other methods serves its purpose but does not fit the definition of a physical control method like setting traps does.

The option that refers to setting traps for rodents is considered a physical control method in pest management because it involves the direct use of barriers or devices to prevent pests from causing harm, without the use of chemicals or biological agents. Traps physically capture or kill pests, thereby reducing their population and mitigating the damage they can cause. This method is often favored in integrated pest management because it can provide targeted control, minimizing the impact on non-target species and reducing the potential for pesticide resistance.

In contrast, using chemical repellents falls under a chemical control method, which involves substances that deter pests, while implementing biological controls refers to utilizing natural predators or parasites to manage pest populations. Applying pesticides on crops is also classified as a chemical control method, involving the use of chemicals to directly kill or repel pests. Each of these other methods serves its purpose but does not fit the definition of a physical control method like setting traps does.