In integrated pest management (IPM), which tactic is least likely to be used?

In integrated pest management (IPM), a central principle is the use of a diverse range of tactics to effectively manage pest populations while minimizing the impact on the environment and human health. The idea is to integrate several strategies rather than relying heavily on a single method.

Complete reliance on chemical pesticides runs contrary to the foundational concepts of IPM. While chemical pesticides can play a role in pest management, an over-reliance on them can lead to problems such as pesticide resistance, harm to non-target organisms, and negative environmental impacts. IPM emphasizes a balanced approach that includes cultural practices, biological control, and physical methods to disrupt the pest lifecycle or reduce pest populations. These alternatives often provide sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions that reduce the need for chemical interventions.

Cultural practices manipulate the environment to make it less conducive to pest development, while biological control introduces natural predators to manage pest populations. Physical traps and barriers offer direct methods to protect crops from pests without adverse effects typical of chemicals. Therefore, relying exclusively on chemical pesticides is not aligned with the IPM strategy, making it the least likely tactic to be employed in a comprehensive pest management plan.