Pest Control Technician Practice Exam

What is a key method used in cultural control of agricultural pests?

1. Use of chemical pesticides

2. Crop rotation

3. Introduction of new species

4. Increase in agricultural monoculture

The correct answer is: Crop rotation

Crop rotation is a key method used in the cultural control of agricultural pests because it disrupts the life cycles of pests and diseases that are specific to certain crop types. By alternating the types of crops grown in a particular area over different seasons, farmers can reduce the buildup of pest populations that thrive on a single crop. This practice not only diminishes pest infestations but also promotes soil health by enhancing nutrient cycling and reducing soil erosion. In contrast, the use of chemical pesticides is a form of chemical control rather than cultural control, focusing on direct methods to eliminate pests rather than manipulating agricultural practices to deter them. The introduction of new species can sometimes lead to unforeseen consequences, potentially resulting in new pest problems or imbalances in the ecosystem. An increase in agricultural monoculture, which involves growing the same crop over and over, can exacerbate pest issues by providing a constant food source for specific pests, thus facilitating their proliferation. This reinforces the effectiveness of crop rotation in managing agricultural pests sustainably.