Which of the following is NOT a key component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to pest control that aims to minimize economic, health, and environmental risks associated with pest management. It incorporates a variety of strategies to effectively manage pest populations.

The option focusing on "exclusive use of chemical pesticides" is not a key component of IPM because the fundamental principle of IPM is to employ a combination of methods rather than relying solely on one tactic, especially chemical pesticides. While chemical controls can be a part of the IPM strategy, they are used judiciously and as a last resort, rather than exclusively.

Key components of IPM include biological control methods, where natural predators or parasites are used to manage pest populations; cultural practices, which involve altering agricultural practices to deter pests; and physical control measures, which might include barriers or traps to physically manage pest presence. Employing a diverse approach like this not only enhances the effectiveness of pest control but also aims to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, thus supporting sustainable practices in agriculture.