Beneficial Insects
/ben-eh-FISH-ul IN-sekts/🦋 Ecology● Basic
Also known as: garden allies, natural enemies, predatory insects
Insects that contribute positively to gardens and ecosystems through pollination (bees, butterflies), predation on pest species (ladybirds, lacewings, hoverflies), parasitism of pests (parasitic wasps), or decomposition of organic matter. Encouraging beneficial insects through diverse plantings, reduced pesticide use, and providing habitat (insect hotels, bare soil patches) is a cornerstone of integrated pest management and organic gardening.
Etymology
Latin beneficium (kindness, benefit) + Latin insectum (cut into)
Example
“Planting umbelliferous herbs like dill and fennel attracts beneficial insects such as lacewings and parasitic wasps.”