Which of the following best describes the relationship between pest management and habitat modification?

Habitat modification is an essential strategy in pest management that focuses on altering the environment to make it less conducive to pest infestations. By modifying the habitat, such as removing standing water, improving drainage, or managing vegetation, it can create conditions that are unfavorable for pests. This effectively reduces their activity and can lead to lower populations or complete elimination of certain pest species.

For example, if an area is prone to mosquito infestations due to stagnant water, draining those sources can significantly reduce mosquito breeding and thus their activity. This principle shows that by understanding the relationship between the environment and pest behavior, effective management practices can be implemented to minimize pest issues.

The other options present viewpoints that do not align with the established understanding of pest management strategies. Habitat modification can indeed increase pest survival, is integral to pest management, and should not be avoided; instead, it should be actively applied as a crucial part of an integrated pest management approach.