What term describes using living organisms to suppress pest populations?

• A. Cultural Control
• B. Biological Control
• C. Chemical Control
• D. Physical Control

Answer: (B)

Biological control means using living organisms to reduce pest populations. This approach relies on natural enemies such as predators, parasites, or pathogens to keep pests in check. In aquatic settings, you might see this as introducing or supporting organisms that eat or disable the pests, or applying a living microbe that specifically harms the pest larvae. This concept contrasts with chemical control, which uses pesticides; cultural control, which changes practices and habitat to reduce pests; and physical control, which uses barriers or traps. Biological control tends to be targeted and can be more sustainable, though its effectiveness can depend on environmental conditions and ecosystem interactions.