The use of temperature or humidity manipulation is a form of what type of control method for insects?

The use of temperature or humidity manipulation to control insect populations falls under physical control methods. This approach involves modifying environmental conditions to create an inhospitable habitat for pests, which can lead to their reduction in numbers. For example, increasing temperature may accelerate pest metabolism or promote mortality, while high humidity levels might create conditions conducive to diseases that affect the insects.

Physical control methods are tangible actions taken to directly alter the environment or use physical barriers to manage pest populations, as opposed to relying on living organisms, plant management techniques, or chemical substances. This understanding highlights the importance of environmental factors in pest management strategies and demonstrates how physical manipulations can be a non-chemical approach to pest control.