Which method of pest control involves using traps and barriers?

The method of pest control that involves using traps and barriers is classified as mechanical or physical control. This approach utilizes physical techniques to manage pest populations without relying on chemical methods. Traps are designed to capture pests, effectively reducing their populations, while barriers serve to prevent pests from accessing specific areas or resources. Both traps and barriers create a physical obstruction or a means of capturing pests, thereby mitigating infestations and protecting plants or structures.

In contrast, biological control focuses on using living organisms, such as predators or parasites, to reduce pest populations. Cultural control involves modifying agricultural practices, like crop rotation or sanitation, to make the environment less conducive to pest establishment. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) encompasses a combination of various control methods, including mechanical, biological, and cultural practices, to achieve sustainable pest management. Each of these methods serves important roles in pest control, but mechanical or physical control specifically pertains to the use of tangible devices and structures like traps and barriers.