Which of the following describes mechanical control in pest management?

Mechanical control in pest management refers to the use of physical methods to manage pest populations without relying on chemicals. The correct choice involves actions such as trapping pests or handpicking them from plants. These techniques help to physically reduce the number of pests present, minimizing their impact on crops or gardens.

Using mechanical control is beneficial because it often has immediate effects and can be a more environmentally friendly option compared to chemical pesticides. This approach can be particularly effective in managing small infestations or in specific areas where pests are concentrated. Moreover, mechanical control methods do not pose a risk to non-target organisms and the environment, which is a significant advantage.

In contrast, the other choices involve methods that do not fall under mechanical control. Pesticides are chemical interventions, natural predators depend on biological control methods, and crop rotation is a cultural practice aimed at disrupting pest life cycles, rather than a direct mechanical intervention. These distinctions highlight the specific role of mechanical control in an integrated pest management strategy.