Biological controls refer to the use of natural organisms to manage pest populations and diseases in agriculture and gardening. This method often involves introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or lacewings, which prey on harmful pests like aphids and caterpillars. By promoting a balanced ecosystem, biological controls can reduce the need for chemical pesticides. Another approach in biological control is the use of pathogens, such as specific bacteria or fungi, to target and eliminate pests. For example, the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis is commonly used to control caterpillar pests in crops. These methods are environmentally friendly and can enhance biodiversity while maintaining crop health.