North Carolina Pesticide Application Practice Test

What is an example of a mechanical method to control pests?

1. Bacterial introduction

2. Crop rotation

3. Fences and traps

4. Change in humidity

The correct answer is: Fences and traps

Mechanical methods for controlling pests refer to physical methods that disrupt or hinder pest populations without the use of chemicals or biological agents. The use of fences and traps falls squarely into this category, as these are tangible barriers or devices utilized to physically exclude or capture pests. Fences can act as a physical barrier to prevent animals from entering specific areas such as gardens, while traps are designed to capture or kill pests that move through specific locations. These methods can be very effective in managing pest populations by directly removing individuals from the environment or preventing them from accessing crops. In contrast, bacterial introduction is a biological control method that involves using microorganisms to combat pest species. Crop rotation is an agronomic practice aimed at disrupting pest life cycles but does not involve a direct mechanical action. Changing humidity may influence pest behavior or development indirectly but is not classified as a mechanical method itself.