Which of the following actions directly relates to mechanical pest control?

Employing traps is a direct method of mechanical pest control. Mechanical pest control involves physical means to manage pest populations without the use of chemicals. Traps are designed to catch or kill pests, and they can be highly effective in reducing pest numbers in a targeted manner. This method is particularly useful for managing pests like rodents or certain insects, as it minimizes the risk of non-target organisms being affected and can be implemented quickly with immediate results.

In contrast, utilizing insecticides involves the application of chemical agents designed to kill pests, which is a different approach entirely. Releasing beneficial insects involves biological control, where natural predators or parasitoids are introduced to control pest populations. Altering plant genetics pertains to a form of genetic engineering aimed at making plants resistant to pests or diseases, representing a long-term biological or agricultural strategy rather than an immediate mechanical intervention. Each of these alternatives falls under distinct pest management strategies, with mechanical pest control specifically focusing on physical devices or methods.