What is an example of mechanical control in pest management?

Mechanical control in pest management refers to the physical methods employed to reduce pest populations or damage. Hand pulling is a prime example of this approach, as it involves the direct removal of pests, weeds, or unwanted plants by hand. This method is often effective for small infestations or in garden settings, as it minimizes the use of chemical pesticides and can be targeted specifically at problem areas.

On the other hand, while lady beetles can be beneficial in controlling pest populations due to their predatory nature, they represent a biological control strategy rather than a mechanical method. Aphids are pests themselves and do not demonstrate either a control method or a solution. Scalping, on the other hand, refers to cutting grass down to the soil level, which is related to lawn care practices but does not specifically pertain to pest management in the same way that hand pulling does.

Thus, hand pulling is a clear instance of mechanical control due to its direct physical action against pests.