What term explains the actions to manage pest populations using natural enemies?

The term that describes managing pest populations using natural enemies is biological control. This approach involves utilizing beneficial organisms, such as predators, parasites, or pathogens that target specific pests, thereby helping to reduce their numbers and impact on crops or ecosystems. By leveraging these natural processes, biological control can provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly method of pest management.

This practice minimizes reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides, which can have negative effects on non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, and can contribute to pesticide resistance in pest populations. Biological control promotes a more balanced ecosystem and can be integrated with other pest management strategies for effective results.

Understanding the concept of biological control is crucial for agricultural professionals and those involved in pest management, as it encourages biodiversity and supports ecological health in agricultural practices.