Answer :
Final answer:
Biological control is a method used in integrated pest management (IPM) to control pests by using natural enemies like predators, parasitoids, or pathogens. It offers an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, aiming for sustainable, long-term pest management with minimal ecological impact. So correct answer is option 1) Biological control.
Explanation:
Methods to protect forests from pathogens and insects include using integrated pest management (IPM), which seeks to reduce reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides. One method used to control pests within the framework of IPM is biological control. This approach involves the use of living organisms, such as predators, parasitoids, or pathogens, to reduce pest populations. Examples include introducing parasitic wasps to control the population of a specific pest or encouraging the presence of natural predators like birds and spiders.
Biological control offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, aiming for long-term pest management with minimal ecological impact. This method benefits from the specificity of biological agents, which often target only the pest species without harming non-target organisms, thereby maintaining overall biodiversity. Additionally, once established, these natural enemies can sustain their populations, potentially reducing the need for future interventions.
