Which of the following is a common method of pest control that limits pesticide use?

Biological control is indeed a common method of pest control that emphasizes the use of natural predators or parasites to manage pest populations, significantly reducing the need for synthetic pesticides. This approach leverages ecological relationships, where certain organisms, such as beneficial insects, bacteria, or nematodes, are used to target and control pest species.

By utilizing these natural enemies, biological control not only mitigates the immediate pest issue but also helps maintain a balanced ecosystem. This method aligns with sustainable practices in pest management, as it minimizes the risks of chemical exposure to humans, wildlife, and the environment, which are often associated with traditional chemical controls.

Other methods like chemical control focus primarily on the application of pesticides, which, while effective in the short term, can lead to negative side effects, including resistance development in pest populations and adverse environmental impacts. Mechanical control involves physical barriers or traps which can be effective but may not address the core issues of pest life cycles. Physical control generally deals with environmental modifications to make habitats less conducive for pests, yet it often still requires the support of biological or mechanical methods to achieve long-term results.