Question

What do you understand by biocontrol? Explain about their benefits.

Hint:

Biocontrol = living organisms controlling pests; safer and more sustainable than chemicals.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition:
Biological control (biocontrol) is the use of living organisms — natural predators, parasites, or pathogens of a pest — to manage pest populations, instead of using chemical pesticides. Examples include ladybird beetles and dragonflies controlling aphids and mosquitoes, and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) controlling caterpillar pests.

Step 2: Benefits:
Biocontrol avoids the pollution and toxic residues caused by chemical pesticides, does not usually lead to pesticide-resistant pest populations, is safer for humans, livestock and beneficial insects (like pollinators), and is a more sustainable, cost-effective long-term solution for pest management.

Final Answer:
Biocontrol uses natural enemies to manage pests, offering an eco-friendly, sustainable, and resistance-resistant alternative to chemical pesticides.