Which method of pest management relies on the introduction of natural predators to control pest populations?

The method of pest management that relies on the introduction of natural predators to control pest populations is biological control. This approach involves using living organisms, such as insects or microorganisms, that naturally prey on the targeted pest species. By introducing these natural enemies, biological control aims to reduce pest populations in a sustainable manner without the use of synthetic chemicals.

This method is effective because it leverages the natural ecological relationships between species to establish a balance in the ecosystem. For example, releasing ladybugs can help control aphid populations, thus reducing the need for chemical pesticides and minimizing environmental impact.

Other methods such as cultural control involve changing farming practices to reduce pest establishment, mechanical control uses physical methods like traps or barriers to manage pests, and chemical control pertains to the use of synthetic pesticides to eliminate them. Each method has its place in integrated pest management, but biological control specifically focuses on harnessing the benefits of natural predators to achieve pest population regulation.