Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

Which type of control employs lacewings to manage garden pests?

1. Mechanical control

2. Cultural control

3. Biological control

4. Chemical control

The correct answer is: Biological control

The correct choice is biological control, which utilizes natural predators or parasites to manage pest populations in a given environment. Lacewings are an excellent example of this method, as their larvae feed on a variety of soft-bodied pests, such as aphids and mites, in gardens. By introducing lacewings into the ecosystem, gardeners can effectively reduce pest populations without relying on synthetic pesticides. This approach is sustainable and aligns with integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, as it leverages the natural behaviors and life cycles of organisms to maintain balance in the ecosystem. Using lacewings exemplifies the principles of biological control, as it promotes biodiversity and minimizes chemical inputs, which can be harmful to the environment and non-target species.