What type of pest control relies on natural enemies that are not native to a geographical area?

Biological control refers to the method of managing pests through the use of natural enemies, such as predators, parasitoids, or diseases, to reduce pest populations. When these natural enemies are introduced from outside their native geographical area, they can help to control pest species that may not have their natural predators in the new environment. This approach can be particularly effective in instances where native biological control agents are insufficient or absent.

This method promotes an ecological balance and can lead to sustainable pest management practices, as it reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals. In contrast, chemical control involves the application of pesticides, cultural control refers to practices that modify the growing environment to reduce pest establishment and survival, and mechanical control employs physical methods to remove or exclude pests. Understanding the specific type of pest control practices helps in implementing a comprehensive integrated pest management strategy.