What type of pest control relies on introducing natural enemies?

Biological pest control involves the use of natural enemies such as predators, parasitoids, or pathogens to manage pest populations. This method harnesses the ecosystem's natural dynamics by reintroducing or enhancing the populations of organisms that can suppress pest species effectively. For example, releasing ladybugs in an area infested with aphids is a classic example of biological control, where the ladybugs consume the aphids, thus reducing their numbers.

In contrast, other pest control methods do not rely on natural enemies. Cultural control focuses on changing farming practices to make the environment less conducive to pest outbreaks, such as crop rotation or altering planting dates. Mechanical control involves physical barriers or methods to remove or kill pests, such as traps or barriers. Chemical control, on the other hand, involves the application of synthetic pesticides or herbicides to eliminate pests directly. Each of these methods has its specific use cases, but biological control stands out for its environmentally friendly approach and ability to promote ecological balance.