Which option represents a non-chemical method commonly included in IPM?

• A. Chemical herbicide application
• B. Biological control using natural enemies
• C. Burning as sole strategy
• D. Mechanical removal only

Answer: (B)

A non-chemical approach commonly used in IPM is biological control using natural enemies. This method relies on predators, parasites, or pathogens to keep pest populations in check, providing ongoing suppression without applying pesticides. It aligns with IPM’s goal of using multiple strategies to reduce reliance on chemicals, protect beneficial organisms, and slow resistance development.

Chemical herbicide application clearly uses chemicals, not a non-chemical method. Burning as the sole strategy is not a typical IPM component because IPM favors integrated, multi-tactic approaches rather than relying on a single method. Mechanical removal can be part of IPM, but describing it as “mechanical removal only” would ignore the integrated nature of IPM.