What is one potential effect of using biological control methods improperly?

Using biological control methods improperly can lead to an increase in pest population. This occurs when the introduced biological control agents do not effectively manage the target pest species due to various factors, such as inadequate adaptation to the local environment or lack of sufficient numbers to impact the pest population. If the control agents fail, the pest may not only remain present but could also thrive, especially if the absence of natural predators allows them to reproduce unchecked. This situation can result in a resurgence or even an overpopulation of the pest, making the initial biological control efforts counterproductive.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the typical consequences of improper biological control. Complete eradication of the pest is generally an ideal outcome, not a consequence of misuse. Creating new pests could happen in a poorly managed scenario, but it is less direct than an increase in an existing pest population. Stabilization of the ecosystem is unlikely if biological control methods are mishandled, as the introduction of agents that fail to control pests can disrupt existing ecological balances instead of stabilizing them.