What does an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach involve?

An Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach involves combining various control methods for sustainable management, which is why this option is the correct choice. IPM is a holistic strategy that recognizes the complexity of ecosystems and incorporates a mix of techniques to manage pests effectively while minimizing environmental impact. These techniques typically include cultural practices, biological control methods, mechanical and physical controls, and chemical controls used in a manner that reduces reliance on any single method.

By integrating multiple strategies, IPM aims to control pest populations at acceptable levels while reducing the risk of pesticide resistance and maintaining ecological balance. This approach promotes methods that are safer for humans and the environment, supporting the idea of long-term pest management rather than relying solely on one method, such as chemical applications. This is a critical aspect of pest management, especially in sensitive environments like aquatic ecosystems, where herbicides can have unintended consequences if not used thoughtfully.