Which approach focuses on using natural enemies to control pest populations?

The correct choice highlights the concept of biological control, which involves the utilization of natural enemies, such as predators, parasites, or pathogens, to manage pest populations. This method embraces the ecological relationships that already exist in nature, leveraging the role of these natural enemies to reduce pest numbers without relying on synthetic chemicals.

Biological control is often seen as an environmentally friendly strategy, aligning with integrated pest management (IPM) practices aimed at maintaining balance in the ecosystem. For instance, introducing ladybugs to control aphid populations or using parasitic wasps to manage caterpillar pests are common examples of biological control applications.

On the other hand, cultural control involves methods like crop rotation and proper sanitation to prevent pest establishment, while chemical control relies on synthetic pesticides to eliminate pests, and physical control includes barriers or traps to keep pests away. These approaches do not harness natural predators or pathogens but rather take different strategies to manage pest issues.