What are biocontrol agents and when are they used?

• A. Predators (lady beetles, lacewings), parasitoids, and entomopathogenic fungi; released as part of IPM to suppress pests; must be compatible with crops and pesticides.
• B. Chemical pesticides used without restriction.
• C. Only beneficial bacteria for soil.
• D. A type of fertilizer.

Answer: (A)

Biocontrol agents are living organisms released to reduce pest populations as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. They include predators like lady beetles and lacewings, parasitoids, and entomopathogenic fungi. They’re used to suppress pests rather than rely on chemical sprays, and they’re chosen to be compatible with the crop and any other products being used so they aren’t harmed or their effectiveness reduced. These agents are introduced when pest pressure exists and the environmental conditions support their activity, and they’re often used to target specific pests at vulnerable life stages. This approach can lower chemical inputs and support more sustainable production. The other options describe non-biological tools or limited concepts (chemical pesticides, soil bacteria-only, or fertilizers) and don’t capture the idea of living organisms actively reducing pests.