Which of the following pest control techniques uses beneficial insects to control pests?

The use of beneficial insects to control pests falls under the category of biological pest control. This method leverages natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to manage pest populations in agricultural and gardening practices. By introducing or encouraging these beneficial organisms, such as ladybugs that eat aphids or predatory wasps that parasitize harmful caterpillars, farmers and gardeners can reduce the reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides, promote a healthier ecosystem, and enhance biodiversity.

Biological pest control is an environmentally friendly approach, as it often leads to sustainable pest management solutions and less environmental impact over time. This method not only targets the pests but also helps to preserve beneficial species, creating a more balanced ecosystem.

Other techniques, such as mechanical, chemical, and cultural methods, focus on different strategies, like physical removal of pests, applying synthetic substances to kill pests, or altering farming practices to deter pest proliferation, respectively. However, the distinctive characteristic of biological control is its use of living organisms to naturally regulate pest populations.