How do biological control methods differ from chemical methods?

Biological control methods are distinct from chemical methods primarily because they utilize natural predators or parasites to manage pest populations. This approach harnesses the existing ecological balance by introducing or encouraging the presence of organisms that naturally prey on pests, thereby reducing their numbers without the negative impacts associated with chemical pesticides.

Natural predators often lead to more sustainable pest management because they can establish themselves within the ecosystem, providing ongoing control as opposed to the temporary effects of chemical application. Chemical methods, while effective in the short term, often pose risks such as pest resistance, negative effects on non-target species, and potential harm to the environment.

In contrast to biological methods, which aim to work within the ecosystem, chemical methods generally result in disruptions that can linger and lead to additional problems in pest control over time. Hence, using natural predators in biological control exemplifies a holistic approach to pest management that focuses on long-term sustainability.