Which pest management method involves the use of natural predators or parasites?

The method that involves the use of natural predators or parasites to manage pest populations is Biological Control. This approach leverages the natural relationships within ecosystems, employing organisms that can naturally suppress pest populations. For instance, introducing beneficial insects that prey on or parasitize harmful pests can lead to a reduction in pest numbers without the reliance on synthetic chemicals.

Biological control is an environmentally friendly option because it works within the existing ecological framework, often promoting biodiversity. This method can be particularly effective as it aims to maintain pest populations at manageable levels rather than eradicating them entirely, which aligns well with sustainable pest management practices.

In contrast, mechanical control involves physical barriers or traps, cultural control focuses on agronomic practices that reduce pest incidence, and chemical control employs pesticides, which do not consider the natural pest dynamics and can lead to various ecological issues, including resistance buildup in pest populations. Thus, the focus of Biological Control on utilizing natural mechanisms is essential for a balanced and sustainable approach to pest management.