What is the goal of biological control in aquatic pest management?

The goal of biological control in aquatic pest management is to enhance the population of beneficial organisms that limit pest species. This approach is centered on utilizing natural predators, parasites, or diseases to manage pest populations, rather than relying solely on synthetic chemicals or other human intervention methods. By fostering a balance in the ecosystem, biological control can effectively reduce the population of invasive or unwanted aquatic pests without causing harm to the environment.

Biological control is beneficial as it can provide a long-term solution by establishing a sustainable balance between pest and beneficial populations. This contrasts with methods that might involve introducing stronger herbicides, which can lead to negative ecological impacts and risks of resistance. Similarly, reducing unfavorable environmental conditions for pests or increasing water temperature does not address the pest problem directly and might even exacerbate existing ecological issues. Thus, enhancing beneficial organisms is a holistic and environmentally sound way to approach aquatic pest management.