Ladybirds, aphid lions and other beneficial insects play an important role in agriculture by keeping pest populations in check. Updated factsheets illustrate their way of life and how they can be supported.
In their larval stage, green lacewings, ladybirds and hoverflies destroy countless pests. Ladybirds, for example, feed mainly on aphids, devouring as many as several dozen a day. Over its average lifespan, a ladybird will consume over a thousand aphids. Similarly, the larva of the predatory green lacewing can put paid to between 30 and 50 red spider mites in an hour.
Factsheet series on beneficials
The recently published factsheets outline the special traits of the individual beneficials and illustrate their distinguishing features and way. of life with selected images. Beneficials can be deliberately encouraged through the creation of hedges or other natural biotopes which serve as suitable refuges for overwintering. Such ‘reservoirs’ allow the beneficials to colonise the surrounding crops. Protective measures also strengthen beneficial insect populations.
