In pest management, what does the term "mechanical control" refer to?

In pest management, "mechanical control" refers to the use of physical barriers or traps to manage pest populations. This method involves using various tools and techniques designed to directly eliminate or exclude pests without the use of chemicals. Examples of mechanical control include installing screens on windows to prevent insects from entering, using traps to capture rodents, or employing barriers like fences to keep out larger pests. This approach is often favored for its effectiveness in targeting specific pests while minimizing harm to non-target species and the environment.

The other options involve different methods of pest management. Using pesticides pertains to chemical control methods, which involve applying substances to kill or repel pests. Biological control involves using natural predators or pathogens to control pest populations, which is fundamentally different from physical methods. Adjusting environmental conditions can help deter pests, but it does not involve direct, immediate intervention like mechanical methods do. Understanding these distinctions is essential for selecting the most effective pest management strategies.