Which is the most ecologically viable method of insect pest control?

Analyze the question: It asks for the most ecologically viable method of insect pest control, meaning a method that works well without harming the environment and that can be sustained over time.

Concept: Integrated pest management favors methods that target the pest's life cycle (biological, cultural and targeted control) instead of broad, harmful methods. Breaking the life cycle at a weak stage stops reproduction, so the population falls without poisoning other organisms.

Evaluate each option:

• A. Draining stagnant pools: This helps only for water-breeding insects like mosquitoes. It is not a general method for insect pests, and it can destroy wetland habitats.
• B. Eliminating one of the development stages: This is the most general and sustainable approach. Examples are removing larvae, destroying eggs, or ploughing to expose pupae.
• C. Handpicking with many labourers: This is impractical, costly, and not workable on a large scale.
• D. Physical barriers: These protect only limited areas, such as nets and screens, and don't control the pest population.
• E. Stronger insecticides: These pollute the environment, kill beneficial insects such as bees and natural predators, build up in food chains, and lead to resistant pests. This is the least ecologically sound option.

Answer: B. Removing one stage of the life cycle interrupts reproduction and controls the pest population while keeping environmental damage low.

Tip: When you see "ecologically viable" or "environmentally friendly" in a pest control question, avoid options with strong chemicals. Choose the biological or life-cycle-based option.