What distinguishes mechanical control from biological control in vector management?

Mechanical control in vector management specifically involves the physical removal of vectors, such as insects or rodents, from an environment. This approach can include trapping, vacuuming, or eliminating breeding sites to reduce vector populations. By directly targeting and removing these organisms, mechanical control effectively disrupts their lifecycle and minimizes the chances of disease transmission.

In contrast, biological control focuses on the use of natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to manage vector populations. This method relies on ecological relationships rather than physical removal. Therefore, understanding the distinction between the two is crucial for implementing appropriate management strategies in vector control programs.