What method is commonly used for pest management in insect-resistant crops?

The production of pest-repellent proteins is a well-established method for managing pests in insect-resistant crops. This approach involves the genetic modification of plants to produce proteins that are toxic to specific pests or that deter them from feeding. These proteins, often derived from bacteria such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), help protect the crops by making them less palatable or directly harmful to the insects that attempt to consume them.

By introducing these pest-repellent proteins into the plant's genetic makeup, farmers can reduce the need for chemical pesticides, which can have broader ecological impacts. This biotechnological method allows for healthier crop yields and contributes to sustainable agriculture by managing pest populations effectively while minimizing environmental harm.

Other methods of pest management, such as biochemical controls, cultural practices, and biological controls, can also play important roles in an integrated pest management framework, but they do not harness the specific advantages brought by genetically engineered pest-repellent proteins as directly as this method does.