A scientific article by Ms. Noor Al-Huda Azmi Hassan entitled "Beneficial Insects"

03/09/2025   Share :        
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Insects play a vital role in the ecosystem. Some are considered harmful pests, while others are classified as "beneficial insects," contributing directly or indirectly to supporting ecological balance and serving humanity. The most prominent of these insects are pollinator bees and predatory beetles, which are essential elements in agriculture and pest control.<br /><br />First: Pollinator Bees<br /><br />Honeybees and wild bees are among the most important natural pollinators.<br /><br />They contribute to the pollination of more than 75% of food crops worldwide.<br /><br />Their absence or decline in numbers leads to a significant decline in the production of agricultural crops such as fruits and vegetables.<br /><br />Bees are an important indicator of ecosystem health.<br /><br />Second: Predatory Beetles<br /><br />They belong to several families, such as ground beetles (Carabidae) and ladybird beetles (Coccinellidae).<br /><br />They feed on harmful insects such as aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars.<br /><br />They are used in organic farming as a natural means of pest control without the need for chemical pesticides.<br /><br />Importance of Beneficial Insects:<br /><br />Scope: Positive Impact of Beneficial Insects<br />Agriculture: Increased production – Pest control – Improved crop quality<br />Environment: Preserving biodiversity – Balanced food chains<br />Economics: Reducing pesticide costs – Increasing the commercial value of crops<br /><br />Beneficial insects are an indispensable component of the natural environment and sustainable agriculture. Protecting them, providing a suitable environment for their reproduction, and reducing our dependence on chemical pesticides is not just a scientific responsibility; it is a necessity to ensure food security and maintain ecological balance.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq.<br />