Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Definition

Integrated Pest Management is an approach used in agriculture and pest control that combines multiple strategies to manage pests while minimizing environmental impact. It involves monitoring pest populations, using biological controls, implementing cultural practices, and only resorting to chemical pesticides when necessary.

Related terms

Biological control: The use of natural enemies (predators, parasites) or beneficial organisms (such as ladybugs) to control pests.

Pesticide resistance: When pests develop genetic traits that make them immune or less susceptible to the effects of certain pesticides over time.

Threshold level: The point at which pest populations reach a certain density or damage level, triggering the need for pest control measures.