Which of the following is an advantage of integrated pest management?

The advantage of integrated pest management (IPM) highlighted in the correct answer involves the significant reduction in the use of chemical pesticides. IPM promotes a holistic approach to pest control that combines various management strategies, such as biological control, cultural practices, and the careful, judicious use of chemical controls when necessary. By prioritizing methods that are environmentally friendly and sustainable, IPM reduces reliance on chemical pesticides, which can have detrimental effects on non-target organisms and ecosystems.

This reduction is not only beneficial for the environment but also for human health, as the exposure to potentially harmful chemicals is minimized. Additionally, using fewer chemicals can lead to the development of pest populations that are less resistant to treatments, ultimately supporting long-term pest management success.

Other choices do not effectively capture the essence of IPM. Complete elimination of all pests is unrealistic and not a goal of IPM, as some pests may play a role in the ecosystem, and complete eradication can disrupt ecological balance. Higher yields with no management effort contradicts the principles of IPM, which require ongoing management and monitoring to be effective. Lastly, immediate results are rarely guaranteed with IPM strategies, as many methods require time to take effect and rely on understanding pest life cycles and ecological interactions.