Integrated Pest Management (IPM) uses a variety of techniques to reduce pest populations while minimizing economic damage.

Which of the following techniques is a mechanical IPM method for reducing pests?

A. The use of a predator or parasites to keep the population size of pest species low
B. The use of screens or traps to prevent pests from entering the crop area
C. The use of monocultures to keep the population size of pest species low
D. The use of pesticides sprayed on fields to kill pests and keep population sizes low

The mechanical IPM method for reducing pests from the options provided is the use of screens or traps to prevent pests from entering crop areas. This physical method effectively limits pest access. Other options, such as biological or chemical controls, do not fall under mechanical methods.

Explanation:

Integrated Pest Management Techniques

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) employs various strategies to manage pest populations while minimizing economic damage. One major approach within IPM is the use of mechanical/physical control methods, which are important for preventing and reducing pest populations.

From the provided options, the correct mechanical IPM method for reducing pests would be:

The use of screens or traps to prevent pests from entering the crop area

This technique physically prevents pests from accessing crops, thereby reducing potential infestations. Other options, such as introducing predators (biological control) or using pesticides (chemical control), fall outside the mechanical control category.

Overall, utilizing screens and traps exemplifies a key approach in mechanical pest management and fits well within the principles of a sustainable and effective IPM strategy.

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