Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What could be considered a biological method for controlling fire ants?

1. Using lawn chemicals

2. Employing parasitic wasps

3. Setting out baits

4. Trapping with hand-held devices

The correct answer is: Employing parasitic wasps

Employing parasitic wasps is classified as a biological method of controlling fire ants because it involves using natural enemies to suppress pest populations. Parasitic wasps can target and infest fire ant colonies, ultimately weakening or reducing their numbers without the use of synthetic chemicals or mechanical traps. This approach aligns with integrated pest management practices, which emphasize sustainable and environmentally friendly control methods. The other methods mentioned do not fall under the category of biological control. Using lawn chemicals involves the application of synthetic pesticides, which can have adverse effects on non-target organisms and the environment. Setting out baits could involve chemicals as well, particularly those designed to kill ants, which again does not reflect a biological approach. Trapping with hand-held devices is a mechanical method that physically removes the ants but does not utilize biological interactions between species to control the pest population. Hence, the method involving parasitic wasps is the most appropriate answer for biological control.