What is the goal of using pathogens in pest management?

Utilizing pathogens in pest management primarily aims to reduce pest populations. This method involves the introduction of specific microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses, that can infect and kill pests. By leveraging these natural enemies, farmers can decrease the need for chemical pesticides, which may have harmful environmental effects.

The effectiveness of this strategy hinges on the ability of the pathogens to target pests specifically while leaving beneficial organisms unharmed. This biological control method not only provides a sustainable approach to managing pest populations but also helps in maintaining an ecological balance within the agricultural system.

Other options, while relevant to agricultural practices, do not align directly with the primary goal of employing pathogens in pest management. Improving yield, creating resistance, and enhancing soil quality are benefits that might be seen indirectly as a result of effective pest management, but they are not the direct objective of using pathogens against pests. The primary focus is indeed on reducing the numbers of harmful pests to protect crops and maintain productivity.