What does "Mechanical/Physical Methods" in pest management entail?

"Mechanical/Physical Methods" in pest management refers to techniques that physically remove, exclude, or control pests without the use of chemicals. This approach includes practices such as hand removal of pests from plants, the use of barriers to prevent pest entry, and trapping devices designed to capture or kill pests directly.

These methods are considered environmentally friendly and can be effective in reducing pest populations while minimizing harm to beneficial organisms. For example, barriers such as row covers can protect plants from insect pests while allowing light and air to reach them. Similarly, trapping devices can target specific pests and reduce their numbers without harming non-target species.

The other options, while relevant to pest management, do not fall under the category of mechanical or physical methods. Releasing natural predators corresponds to biological control, using chemicals pertains to chemical control, and planting pest-resistant varieties involves genetic control methods. Each of these approaches has its place in Integrated Pest Management, but they operate differently than mechanical or physical methods, which emphasize direct, non-chemical interactions with pests.