Define biocontrol agents.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Biocontrol Agents**: Biocontrol agents are living organisms, such as microorganisms, insects, or plants, that are used to control pest populations in agriculture. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by managing pest populations instead of completely eradicating them.

2. **Importance of Pest Management**: In organic farming, complete eradication of pests is considered both impossible and undesirable. This is because pests are an integral part of the ecosystem, and their total elimination can disrupt ecological balance. For instance, predators that rely on pests for food may struggle to survive if pests are eradicated.

3. **Maintaining Pest Populations**: Instead of eradicating pests, organic farmers aim to maintain them at manageable levels. This approach helps to ensure that the ecosystem remains balanced and that crop varieties are not adversely affected by the use of chemical pesticides.

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