In a pest management system, which method should not solely be relied upon?

In a pest management system, chemical methods should not be solely relied upon because they can lead to several potential issues. Over-reliance on chemical methods can result in pests developing resistance, which diminishes the effectiveness of those chemicals over time. Additionally, excessive use of chemical pesticides can harm beneficial organisms within the ecosystem, disrupt natural pest control mechanisms, and lead to environmental contamination.

A balanced approach that incorporates a variety of strategies—including cultural practices, biological control, and monitoring—is more sustainable for long-term pest management. These integrative practices promote a healthier ecosystem and reduce the likelihood of resistance development, making it essential to utilize chemical methods as one component of an overall pest management strategy rather than the sole method.