What best describes the relationship between biodiversity and vector control?

Biodiversity plays a critical role in maintaining ecosystem balance, which can directly influence vector populations. An ecosystem rich in biodiversity typically has a variety of species that can act as natural predators to vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks. These predators help keep the populations of these vectors in check, reducing the need for chemical interventions and allowing for more sustainable management approaches.

When biodiversity is high, it creates a resilient ecosystem where various species can support one another, thus enhancing the presence of natural controls like predators, parasites, or diseases that target vector species. This natural mortality can reduce the abundance of vectors, subsequently influencing the transmission dynamics of the diseases they carry.

High biodiversity can also contribute to improved soil health, water quality, and overall habitat stability, further supporting the survival of natural enemies that control vector populations. Therefore, the relationship between biodiversity and vector control is significant, with biodiversity acting as a beneficial factor in integrated pest management strategies.