In IPM, which control method is used as the last resort?

• A. Mechanical control
• B. Chemical control
• C. Biological control
• D. Cultural control

Answer: (B)

In IPM, chemicals are used only after other methods have been tried or when pest populations reach a level that justifies their use. The reason is simple: pesticides can act quickly, but they come with higher risks. They can harm non-target organisms, including beneficial insects and pollinators, disrupt natural control by predators and parasitoids, leave residues, and contribute to resistance in pest populations. Because of these downsides, IPM prioritizes prevention and suppression through cultural practices (like sanitation and crop rotation), mechanical methods (barriers, traps), and biological controls (predators, parasites, and pathogens) first. When monitoring shows that pest density exceeds the economic injury level and alternatives can’t bring it under control, a carefully chosen chemical treatment may be applied, ideally targeting the pest and rotated to minimize resistance.