eChipmunks

Can anybody tell me the difference between natural control and biological control of pests?

Hi there! I want to know the difference between natural control and biological control of pests (in agriculture), not including chemical control. As far as I think, natural and biological control are the same...but there is obviously some difference. Can anybody tell me that please....?? Just tell me how they are different and how to distinguish between them...I'd appreciate if you answer me in a tabular form (in the form of points) as it'd be easier for me to understand! Thanks :-)

Public Comments

1. The difference between Biological Control and Natural control is that the former is brought about through man's action while the latter is not. There are natural control factors that limit the increase in numbers of an organism in an ecosystem. These naturally occurring limiting factors prevent most organisms from becoming pests.This process is known as Natural Control. Natural control consists of two major components, environmental factors (abiotic) and natural enemies (biotic). When natural enemies are killed by man's actions in any habitat or when the pests are introduced to new habitats without their natural enemies, natural control often fails and results in pest outbreaks. To remedy the situation caused by his own actions, man can play an active role in reintroducing the natural enemies to control pests. The use of natural enemies by man to control pests is Biological Control.