Most insects and other arthropods found in the yard and garden do not feed on or harm plants. Many of these are just passing through or have innocuous habits, others feed on and destroy pest species. In many cases, the activities of these beneficial species can completely prevent or greatly limit pest problems. It is important to recognize these beneficial arthropods so they may be appreciated and conserved. Beneficial arthropods are categorized broadly as either predators or parasites. Adult or immature stages of insect predators, or both, actively search out and eat prey insects. Predators include lady beetles, lacewings and spiders. Insect parasites develop in or on a single host from eggs or larvae deposited by the adult parasite. Common insect parasites are tachinid flies and braconid and ichneumonid wasps. Praying mantis, green lacewing and the ladybird beetle or ladybug are some of the "good bugs" in the garden. For additional information see the PlantTalk script, Beneficial Insects, and the fact sheet, Beneficial Insects and Other Arthropods.
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