What is the primary focus of mechanical pest control?

Mechanical pest control primarily focuses on using physical methods to manage pest populations without relying on chemicals. This involves the implementation of barriers and traps that can effectively prevent pests from entering or damaging crops. Barriers may include physical structures like nets or fences, which limit pests' access to plants, while traps can capture or kill pests that are already present.

This approach is particularly valued in integrated pest management systems because it minimizes the potential for chemical pesticide resistance and reduces the environmental impact associated with chemical applications. The methods are typically low-tech and can be easily implemented in various agricultural settings, making mechanical pest control a practical and sustainable option for managing pest problems.

Organic pesticides, chemical pesticides, and crop rotation do play roles in pest management, but they do not pertain to the mechanical aspect of pest control, which specifically emphasizes physical methods of intervention.