Which of the following agents is NOT typically used in biological control of termites?

The use of biological control agents in managing termite populations focuses on utilizing natural organisms to suppress or eliminate pests in an environmentally friendly manner. In this context, the agents that are commonly employed include fungi, bacteria, and nematodes. These organisms can directly affect termites through various mechanisms, such as infection, parasitism, or competition.

Fungi, for instance, can infect and kill termites, working as a natural pathogen. Similarly, certain bacteria produce toxins that can be lethal to termites when ingested. Nematodes are microscopic roundworms that can enter termite bodies and cause death.

In contrast, insecticides are synthetic chemicals designed to kill insects, including termites, but they do not fall under biological control. Instead, insecticides often disrupt the ecosystem balance and can have harmful effects on beneficial organisms. Therefore, they do not align with the principle of biological control, which aims to utilize natural enemies of pests rather than relying on chemical interventions. This distinction is crucial in pest management strategies that prioritize environmental health and safety.