Final answer:
An effective biological control strategy of pest management includes factors such as diversity of natural enemies, specificity of control agents, proper timing and release, compatibility with other methods, and maintaining habitat diversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
An effective biological control strategy of pest management requires several factors:
- Diversity of natural enemies: The presence of a variety of species that prey on or parasitize pests can help control their populations. For example, birds feeding on insects or bacteria killing mosquito larvae can reduce the number of pests.
- Specificity: The biological control agent should target the pest species without harming non-target organisms. This ensures the ecosystem remains balanced.
- Timing and release: Releasing biological control agents at the right time and in sufficient numbers is crucial for effective pest management.
- Compatibility with other control methods: Biological control should be integrated with other pest management strategies, such as cultural and chemical control methods.
- Maintaining habitat diversity: Preserving natural habitats and promoting biodiversity can provide a favorable environment for natural enemies of pests to thrive.