What is the term for physically removing invasive species from an area?

The term for physically removing invasive species from an area is mechanical control. This method involves the direct physical actions taken to eliminate or reduce the population of invasive species, such as cutting, pulling, or digging them out. It is an important strategy in managing ecosystems, as invasive species can disrupt local biodiversity and alter habitats.

Mechanical control is often one of the preferred methods because it does not involve introducing new chemicals or organisms into the ecosystem, thereby minimizing the risk of unintended consequences. This approach can be effective for species that are in manageable populations or in smaller areas where physical removal is feasible.

Other management methods such as biological control involves using natural predators or parasites to manage invasive species, while chemical control refers to using herbicides or pesticides to eliminate unwanted species. Ecological management focuses on broader conservation strategies and ecosystem function but does not specifically address the physical removal of species. Each of these strategies has its applications based on the specific context and the species being managed.