What is a type of biological control for roaches?

• A. Sterile males
• B. Parasitic wasp
• C. Habitat modification
• D. Bacteria

Answer: (B)

Biological control relies on a living natural enemy to reduce pest numbers. A parasitic wasp that targets cockroach eggs fits this approach because it attacks the roach’s reproductive stage. The wasp locates cockroach egg cases (oothecae) and lays its eggs inside; the developing wasp larvae then consume the eggs or the developing roaches, preventing hatching and lowering the next generation. This keeps pest pressure down over time without relying on chemical insecticides and fits well with integrated pest management.

While releasing sterile males is another way to reduce populations, it’s less practical for home roach problems and focuses on population suppression through genetics rather than a natural enemy. Habitat modification is not a biological control, as it changes the environment rather than introducing a living control agent. Bacteria would need a specific pathogen effective against roaches, which isn’t a common or reliable solution for household pests.