What does the use of barriers to prevent pests from accessing an area classify as?

The use of barriers to prevent pests from accessing an area classifies as mechanical control. This method involves physical barriers that block pests from entering a specific area, thereby preventing potential damage or infestation. Examples include screens, nets, or fencing that physically keep pests out and reduce the need for chemical interventions. Mechanical control is often favored in integrated pest management strategies for its effectiveness in creating a barrier without negatively impacting the environment or non-target species, which can sometimes be a concern with chemical methods.

Chemical control generally relies on substances that kill or repel pests, while biological control utilizes natural predators or pathogens to manage pest populations. Genetic control involves manipulating the genetics of plants or animals to render them less susceptible to pests or diseases. Therefore, the identification of barrier methods as mechanical control highlights the approach's focus on physical measures rather than chemical, biological, or genetic interventions.