Which of the following describes a mechanical pest management method?

• A. Using barriers to prevent pests from entering an area
• B. Releasing predators
• C. Planting resistant varieties
• D. Using pheromone traps

Answer: (A)

Mechanical pest management relies on physical means to block, remove, or separate pests from the crop. Using barriers to prevent pests from entering an area fits this because a barrier is a physical structure that stops pests from reaching the plants, providing protection without chemicals. The other approaches involve non-mechanical methods: releasing predators is biological control, planting resistant varieties is a genetic/cultural strategy, and using pheromone traps uses chemical signals to lure or disrupt pest behavior, not a physical barrier.