What is the main focus of habitat modification in pest management?

The main focus of habitat modification in pest management is to reduce sources of food, water, and harborage. This approach involves altering the environment to make it less hospitable for pests. By eliminating or managing potential resources that pests depend on, such as standing water or places for nesting and breeding, habitat modification aims to directly impact the pest population by limiting their ability to thrive and reproduce.

This strategy is an essential component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), as it not only helps control existing pest problems but also prevents future infestations. When food, water, and shelter are scarce, many pests will either leave the area or have significantly reduced populations. This makes habitat modification a proactive approach to pest management that emphasizes ecosystem health and sustainability.