Aphid-predator
Guides
Adalia bipunctata
Two-spotted Lady Beetle, Two-spot Ladybird, Two-spotted Ladybug
Adalia bipunctata is a small predatory ladybird beetle native to the Holarctic region, with populations in Europe, North America, and Central Asia. It is one of the most extensively studied ladybird species due to its complex color polymorphism and ecological interactions. The species exhibits remarkable variation in elytral coloration, ranging from the classic red-with-two-black-spots form to multiple melanistic variants. Populations show geographic variation in life history: European populations are typically multivoltine, while some introduced populations (e.g., Japan) exhibit univoltine cycles with extended adult inactivity. The species has declined significantly in parts of its native North American range but remains common in western and central Europe. It is frequently employed as a biological control agent against aphid pests in greenhouses and agricultural systems.
Agonum muelleri
Müller's Harp Ground Beetle
Agonum muelleri is a ground beetle species in the family Carabidae, widespread across the Palearctic, Nearctic, and Near East regions. It is notably abundant in agricultural landscapes, particularly soybean fields, where it functions as an active predator of pest insects. The species exhibits atypical behavior for a ground beetle by readily climbing vegetation to hunt prey. Two subspecies are recognized: A. muelleri muelleri and A. muelleri unicolor.
Allograpta obliqua
oblique streaktail
Allograpta obliqua is a common North American hoverfly species in the family Syrphidae. Adults are small, measuring 6–7 mm, with distinctive yellow thoracic stripes and abdominal banding. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in eye structure: males have holoptic eyes while females have dichoptic eyes. Larvae are aphid predators, reaching 8–9 mm in length with a bumpy, slug-like appearance. The species is active year-round in southern portions of its range and has been documented across much of the continental United States, southern Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the West Indies, and parts of the Neotropical Americas.
Ammoplanops
Ammoplanops is a genus of aphid wasps containing approximately 15 described species. These small solitary wasps are classified within the subfamily Pemphredoninae of the family Crabronidae. The genus was established by Gussakovskij in 1931. Species in this genus are specialized predators that provision their nests with aphids.
Anatis mali
Eye-spotted Lady Beetle
Anatis mali, commonly known as the eye-spotted lady beetle, is a North American lady beetle species in the family Coccinellidae. Adults measure 7.3–10 mm in length and display variable coloration from yellow to brownish red with black markings. The species has been documented as a specialized predator of aphids in balsam fir plantations, where it plays a significant role in biological control. Research indicates that larvae require approximately 296 aphids to complete development and pupate.
Anthocoris
minute pirate bugs
Anthocoris is a genus of minute pirate bugs in the family Anthocoridae, containing at least 30 described species. These small predatory true bugs are important biological control agents in orchards and natural ecosystems, feeding on aphids, psyllids, mites, and other small arthropods. Several species have been studied extensively for their potential in integrated pest management, particularly in pear orchards and pistachio cultivation. The genus exhibits host-specific associations with particular tree species and prey types, with life cycles often synchronized to exploit seasonal aphid or psyllid populations.
Anthocoris nemorum
Common Flowerbug
Anthocoris nemorum is a predatory anthocorid bug native to Europe, commonly known as the common flowerbug. It is an important biological control agent in orchards and agricultural systems, preying on aphids, psyllids, mites, and other small arthropods. The species exhibits distinct oviposition preferences, laying eggs primarily on apple leaves near leaf margins, and shows preference for damaged leaves over healthy ones. Multiple generations occur annually, with adults overwintering and reproducing in spring.
Aphidecta
larch ladybird, larch ladybug
Aphidecta is a genus of Coccinellidae (ladybird beetles) containing at least one well-documented species, A. obliterata, commonly known as the larch ladybird. Members are specialized predators of conifer-infesting adelgids and aphids. The genus has been the subject of biological control research, particularly for management of balsam woolly aphid.
Aphidecta obliterata
larch ladybird, larch ladybug, Larch Lady Beetle
Aphidecta obliterata is a small ladybird beetle (3.5–5 mm) native to Europe, with introduced populations in North America. It is a specialized predator of conifer-infesting aphids and adelgids, particularly associated with spruce and larch. The species exhibits remarkable color polymorphism, ranging from tan to brown with pinkish tints to nearly black. Multiple unsuccessful attempts were made to introduce it to eastern Canada as a biological control agent for the balsam woolly aphid (Adelges piceae) beginning in 1941. Females demonstrate sophisticated oviposition behavior, using conspecific larval tracks and egg-surface chemicals to avoid sites with high cannibalism risk.
Aphidoletes
aphid midge
Aphidoletes is a genus of predatory gall midges (Cecidomyiidae) whose larvae are specialized aphid predators. The best-known species, Aphidoletes aphidimyza, is widely used in commercial biological control programs against aphids in greenhouse and field crops. Adults are small, delicate flies that feed on honeydew, while larvae actively hunt and consume aphids using paralytic venom.
Aphidoletes aphidimyza
aphid midge
Aphidoletes aphidimyza is a predatory gall midge used worldwide in biological control programs against aphids. Adults are small, delicate, nocturnal flies that feed on aphid honeydew and hide beneath leaves during daylight. The bright orange, slug-like larvae are specialized aphid predators that paralyze prey by injecting venom into leg joints before consuming body contents. The species is commercially mass-produced and distributed as pupae in moist substrate for greenhouse applications.
Baccha
Baccha is a genus of hoverflies in the subfamily Syrphinae, characterized by extremely slender, club-shaped abdomens. Adults range from 7 to 10 mm in length and exhibit wasp-like body proportions with clear or faintly marked wings. The genus is distinguished by its distinctive elongate body form among syrphine flies.
Bembidion lampros
A small ground beetle native to Europe, now established in North America. Adults overwinter and reproduce in early spring in arable fields, where they function as generalist predators of cereal aphids. The species exhibits wing dimorphism with three phenotypes, though macropterous individuals rarely possess functional flight muscles. Low lifetime fecundity (approximately 10 eggs per female) and high juvenile mortality (66%) make population dynamics sensitive to conditions during larval development.
Brachymyrmex
Rover Ants
Brachymyrmex is a genus of minute ants in the subfamily Formicinae, commonly known as rover ants. Workers are distinguished by having only nine antennal segments—fewer than most ants—and by the petiole being concealed by the gaster in dorsal view. The genus contains 44 species and 17 subspecies, though species-level identification is challenging due to minimal morphological variation, small size, and soft-bodied workers. Brachymyrmex patagonicus, the dark rover ant, has become a significant invasive pest in the southern United States and other regions worldwide.
Brumus quadripustulatus
Cream-spot ladybird, Cream-spot lady beetle
Brumus quadripustulatus is a small ladybird beetle native to Europe and northern Asia, now established in North America. It is recognized by its distinctive cream-colored spots on a dark, nearly black background. The species inhabits various wooded and shrubby environments and has been observed preying on aphids and scale insects.
Calvia quatuordecimguttata
cream-spot ladybird, cream-spotted ladybird, polkadot ladybird, eighteen spot ladybird
A small Holarctic ladybird measuring 4–5.5 mm, highly variable in coloration across its range. In Europe it appears maroon-brown with fourteen cream spots; in North America and eastern Asia, color forms range from black with white spots to yellow or pink with eighteen large blotches. It inhabits deciduous woodlands, hedgerows, and ruderal areas, overwintering in bark crevices and leaf litter.
Cantharis
soldier beetle, leatherwing
Cantharis is a large genus of soldier beetles in the family Cantharidae. Members possess soft, flexible elytra that give rise to the common name 'leatherwings.' Both adults and larvae are partially carnivorous, preying on soft-bodied invertebrates, though adults may feed primarily on nectar, pollen, and honeydew. The genus is frequently encountered in meadows and agricultural settings where it contributes to natural pest control.
Cantharis rufa
soldier beetle
Cantharis rufa is a soldier beetle (family Cantharidae) measuring 8–11 mm in length. It is widely distributed across the Palaearctic region and has been introduced to North America, where it is expanding its range. The species has an annual life cycle with two 'prolarval' and six larval instars. Adults are active from mid-May to mid-July.
Ceratopogonini
Predaceous Biting Midges
Ceratopogonini is a tribe of biting midges within the family Ceratopogonidae. Members are commonly known as predaceous biting midges, reflecting their primarily predatory lifestyle. The tribe includes species that serve as important biological control agents, particularly against aphid pests in agricultural and greenhouse settings. Adults are small, delicate flies, while larvae are minute predators that subdue prey using paralytic venom.
Chamaemyiidae
silver flies, aphid flies
Chamaemyiidae is a small family of acalyptrate flies comprising fewer than 200 described species worldwide. Adults are minute (1–5 mm), typically greyish, and morphologically characterized by reduced bristling. Larvae are active predators of Sternorrhyncha, particularly aphids, adelgids, and scale insects, making several species valuable biological control agents. The family has been deployed in classical biological control programs targeting invasive pests such as the hemlock woolly adelgid and pink hibiscus mealybug. Fossil records are sparse but extend to the Eocene.
Chrysoperla
Common Green Lacewings
Chrysoperla is a genus of green lacewings in the family Chrysopidae, tribe Chrysopini, containing approximately 67 described species with a cosmopolitan distribution. Adults are characterized by a pale yellowish stripe down the middle of the body and delicate, transparent wings. The genus is notable for its use in biological pest control, as larvae are predatory and feed on aphids, mites, and other soft-bodied insects. Species identification is complicated by morphological similarity; many species are distinguished primarily by male genitalia features and species-specific vibrational courtship songs rather than external appearance.
Chrysoperla externa
green lacewing
Chrysoperla externa is a species of green lacewing in the family Chrysopidae, native to the Americas. Like other members of the genus Chrysoperla, its larvae are predatory on soft-bodied insects, particularly aphids, making it valuable for biological pest control. The species is part of the taxonomically challenging Chrysoperla carnea-group, in which species are often difficult to distinguish morphologically and are instead identified by their species-specific vibrational songs. It has been documented across much of South America and in parts of North America including Hawaii.
Chrysoperla harrisii
Harris's Green Lacewing
Chrysoperla harrisii is a green lacewing species in the family Chrysopidae, native to North America. Adults are predatory and feed on soft-bodied insects and honeydew. The species belongs to the Chrysoperla carnea-group, a complex of morphologically similar species that are difficult to distinguish without specialized techniques such as vibrational song analysis. Larvae are aggressive predators of aphids, mites, and other small arthropods, making this species valuable for biological pest control.
Chrysoperla rufilabris
Red-lipped Green Lacewing
Chrysoperla rufilabris, the red-lipped green lacewing, is a predatory insect in the family Chrysopidae native to eastern North America. Larvae are voracious predators of soft-bodied insects, particularly aphids, and are widely used as biological control agents in agricultural and ornamental systems. Adults are primarily nocturnal and are commonly attracted to artificial lights. The species has been extensively studied for its potential in integrated pest management, with research demonstrating its effectiveness against diverse prey including aphids, scale insects, and lepidopteran eggs.
Chrysopidae
Green lacewings, lacewings, stinkflies, aphid lions, aphid wolves, junk bugs, trash bugs
Chrysopidae, commonly known as green lacewings, is a large family of neuropteran insects comprising approximately 85 genera and 1,300–2,000 species worldwide. Adults are delicate, often bright green insects with conspicuous golden compound eyes and translucent, iridescent wings with characteristic wide costal fields in the venation. Larvae are voracious predators nicknamed "aphid lions" or "trash bugs," known for carrying debris on their backs for camouflage while hunting soft-bodied prey. The family is economically significant as biological control agents, with millions reared annually for agricultural pest management.
Coccinella
ladybird, ladybug, lady beetle
Coccinella is a genus of lady beetles recognized by their convex, hemispherical bodies and typically red or orange elytra marked with black spots or bands. The genus contains approximately 94 species and occurs throughout the Northern Hemisphere, with greater diversity in Eurasia than North America. Several species, particularly C. septempunctata, are valued as biological control agents due to their predatory habits.
Coccinella hieroglyphica
Hieroglyphic Lady Beetle, Hieroglyphic Ladybird, Hieroglyphic Ladybug
Coccinella hieroglyphica is a Palearctic lady beetle species associated with heath and moorland habitats, particularly on Ericaceae plants. It is distributed across northern Europe, extending beyond the Arctic Circle, through Russia and Siberia to East Asia. The species is aphidophagous, with populations showing considerable annual fluctuation. Adults are active from May through October and overwinter in coarse woody debris beneath pines and birches.
Coccinella hieroglyphica kirbyi
Coccinella hieroglyphica kirbyi is a subspecies of hieroglyphic lady beetle in the family Coccinellidae. It is classified within the diverse genus Coccinella, which includes numerous aphid-feeding species distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. This subspecies represents part of the broader C. hieroglyphica complex found across northern regions.
Coccinella hieroglyphica mannerheimi
Coccinella hieroglyphica mannerheimi is a subspecies of hieroglyphic lady beetle in the family Coccinellidae. It is part of the Coccinella hieroglyphica species complex, which is characterized by distinctive elytral markings. The subspecies was described by Mulsant in 1850. It occurs across parts of Europe, Northern Asia, and North America.
Coccinella novemnotata
nine-spotted ladybug, nine-spotted lady beetle, C9
Coccinella novemnotata is a native North American lady beetle that experienced a drastic population decline beginning in the 1960s. Once among the most common coccinellids in the northeastern United States and southern Canada, it has become rare across much of its former range. The species is a specialized aphid predator with potential value as a biocontrol agent in agriculture. It is the state insect of New York, designated in 1989.
Coccinella prolongata
Prolongate Lady Beetle
Coccinella prolongata, the prolongate lady beetle, is a species of lady beetle in the family Coccinellidae. It is a small beetle measuring 5.7–7 mm in length, with distinctive black and pale markings on the head, pronotum, and elytra. The species is native to western North America and comprises three recognized subspecies with somewhat different geographic ranges. Like other members of the genus Coccinella, it is presumed to be a predator of soft-bodied insects such as aphids.
Coccinella septempunctata
seven-spot ladybird, seven-spotted ladybug, seven-spotted lady beetle, C-7
Coccinella septempunctata is a predatory lady beetle native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, now widely established in North America following intentional introduction for biological control. Adults measure 6.5–7.8 mm with distinctive red elytra bearing seven black spots. The species is among the most extensively studied coccinellids due to its importance in aphid biocontrol and its invasive success in new ranges. It completes up to five generations annually with a six-week development cycle from egg to adult.
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ation-molecularcascading-gene-expression-effects-downstreamother-traits-selective-advantage-pleiotropyfuture-research-taxonomic-expansion-recommendationScymninae-missing-family-subfamily-taxonomicChilocorinae-scale-feeders-missing-taxonomicPsylloborini-fungi-feeders-missing-taxonomicintriguing-future-research-possibilities-opportunityinvasive-species-ecological-role-insight-applicationbiological-control-agent-understanding-practicalLeslie-Mertz-northern-Michigan-residence-personalknowyourinsects.org-educational-resource-outreachsummer-field-biology-teaching-activity-educationalHelen-Roy-childhood-1976-memory-personalIsle-of-Wight-garden-ladybird-abundance-biogeographicimagination-capture-interest-spark-developmentaldoctoral-research-privilege-description-professionalCambridge-sabbatical-2004-harlequin-anticipation-predictiveecological-network-upset-prediction-correctness-validation80-90%-urban-dominance-current-status-quantitativeHesperomyces-virescens-native-two-spotted-prior-observation-historicalKatie-Murray-doctoral-student-discovery-contributionmarathon-mating-hour-duration-description-behavioralcontact-point-fruiting-body-location-evidence-morphologicaloverwintering-aggregation-months-duration-behavioralfield-cross-species-transmission-absence-assertion-ecologicalMurray-health-effects-investigation-ongoing-researchHaelewaters-Harvard-lineage-study-institutionalthree-separate-lineages-hypothesis-taxonomicScientific-Reports-publication-venue-academicDinocampus-coccinellae-seven-spot-targeting-expansion-ecologicalcocoon-between-legs-observation-detail-morphologicalevolutionary-action-research-excitement-expression-enthusiasmcitizen-science-online-mapping-project-methodologythousands-of-participants-contribution-scale-participatoryverified-record-quantity-reporting-pride-achievementScientific-Data-Nature-journal-publication-academicharlequin-spread-pattern-documentation-spatialnative-species-decline-correlation-data-ecologicalanecdotal-increase-personal-observation-note-qualitativeseven-spot-Dinocampus-tracking-expansion-plan-futuresuper-abundant-resource-wasp-prediction-ecologicalparasite-pathogen-invaded-system-evolution-opportunity-researchCoccinella transversoguttata
Transverse Lady Beetle, transverse ladybird
Coccinella transversoguttata is a predatory lady beetle native to North America, now also found in Europe and Asia including the Tibetan plateau. It is recognized by the transverse black band across the base of its elytra, formed by connected spots. The species serves as an important biological control agent against aphids and other agricultural pests, though its populations appear to be declining in some regions following the introduction of competing non-native lady beetles.
Coccinella undecimpunctata
eleven-spot ladybird, eleven-spotted lady beetle, eleven-spotted ladybird beetle
Coccinella undecimpunctata, commonly known as the eleven-spot ladybird or eleven-spotted lady beetle, is a small predatory beetle in the family Coccinellidae. It is endemic to the Palearctic region and has been introduced to Australia and New Zealand as a biological control agent. The species is distinguished by eleven black spots on its red or orange elytra, though one central spot creates the appearance of six spots per elytron. It is an effective predator of aphids and is used in integrated pest management programs.
Coelophora
Coelophora is a genus of ladybird beetles (Coccinellidae) established by Mulsant in 1850, containing approximately 14 described species distributed across Asia, Australia, and surrounding regions. Members of this genus are predominantly aphidophagous predators, with several species studied for their potential as biological control agents in agricultural systems. The genus exhibits notable colour pattern polymorphism, particularly in Coelophora inaequalis, where multiple elytral pattern morphs are controlled by alleles showing mosaic dominance. Some species have been transferred to other genera upon taxonomic revision, such as Coelophora circumusta moved to Phrynocaria.
Coelophora inaequalis
variable ladybird, common Australian lady beetle, common Australian ladybug, Variable Ladybird Beetle
Coelophora inaequalis is a small predatory ladybird beetle native to Australia, Oceania, and Southern Asia. Adults measure 3.70–5.20 mm and display highly variable elytral coloration, with yellow to orange backgrounds bearing four to five black spots that differ among individuals. The species has been introduced to Florida and Hawaii as a biological control agent against the yellow sugarcane aphid (Sipha flava). It is an effective aphid predator with documented prey including Aphis gossypii, Aphis craccivora, and Toxoptera citricida.
Coleomegilla maculata
spotted pink lady beetle, spotted lady beetle, pink spotted lady beetle, twelve-spotted lady beetle
Coleomegilla maculata is a native North American coccinellid beetle widely used in biological control programs. Adults and larvae are primarily aphid predators, though this species is unusual among North American lady beetles in its facultative pollen-feeding habit—pollen may constitute up to 50% of adult diet. The species shows increasing abundance and westward range expansion while many native coccinellids are declining, possibly due to its dietary flexibility reducing competitive impacts from invasive species. Multiple subspecies exist, with C. m. fuscilabris distinguished by bright orange-red rather than pink coloration.
Coleomegilla maculata strenua
12-spotted lady beetle, pink-spotted lady beetle
Coleomegilla maculata strenua is a subspecies of the 12-spotted lady beetle, a native North American coccinellid. Adults display a distinctive pink to reddish coloration with six black spots on each elytron. This subspecies is part of a species complex known for unusual dietary habits among lady beetles, including substantial consumption of plant pollen alongside typical predatory feeding.
Crossocerus harringtonii
Crossocerus harringtonii is a small solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae, first described by W. Fox in 1895. It belongs to a genus of aphid-hunting wasps that provision their nests with paralyzed aphids for their larvae. The species is known from limited records in western North America, particularly Alberta, Canada. Observations are sparse, with only 9 documented records on iNaturalist as of the source data.
Cycloneda
Spotless Lady Beetles
Cycloneda is a genus of lady beetles in the family Coccinellidae, commonly known as spotless lady beetles. The genus contains approximately 18–20 described species distributed primarily in the Americas. Members of this genus are recognized by their typically unmarked, polished elytra lacking the spots characteristic of many other coccinellids. They are predatory beetles that feed on soft-bodied insects, particularly aphids and spider mites, and are valued as biological control agents in agricultural and garden settings.
Cycloneda munda
Polished Lady Beetle, Immaculate Ladybird Beetle
Cycloneda munda is a small lady beetle (Coccinellidae) native to eastern North America, commonly known as the polished lady beetle or immaculate ladybird beetle. Adults measure 3.7–5.7 mm and are distinguished by reddish-yellow elytra and a black pronotum with pale lateral spots. The species is an aphid predator, with documented associations with oleander aphids (Aphis nerii) on milkweed plants. Its development and fecundity are influenced by host plant species.
Cycloneda polita
Western Polished Lady Beetle, Western Blood-red Lady Beetle, Polished Ladybug, Western Spotless Ladybird Beetle
Cycloneda polita is a small, spotless lady beetle native to western North America. Unlike most lady beetles, it lacks the characteristic spots on its elytra, presenting a uniform red or orange-red appearance. The species is commonly found in diverse habitats ranging from grasslands to forest edges, where it preys on aphids and other small soft-bodied insects. It is one of the most frequently observed lady beetles in its range, with over 6,000 documented observations on citizen science platforms.
Cycloneda sanguinea
Spotless Lady Beetle, Spotless Ladybug
Cycloneda sanguinea, commonly known as the spotless lady beetle, is a widespread ladybird beetle native to the Americas. It is distinguished by its lack of spots on the elytra, with coloration ranging from orange to deep red. The species is a voracious predator of aphids and other soft-bodied insects, making it valuable for biological control in agricultural systems. Adults and larvae both actively hunt prey, with females using volatile chemical cues to assess patch quality and avoid competitor-rich habitats. Recent research has also identified C. sanguinea as a potential vector for dispersing plant pathogens in soybean fields.
Dasysyrphus laticaudus
Boreal Brusheye, boreal conifer fly
Dasysyrphus laticaudus is a small syrphid fly (5–8.2 mm) commonly found in Eastern and Northern North America. Adults are flower visitors that feed on nectar and pollen. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in frons pattern, eye contact, and abdominal maculae shape. Larvae of the genus Dasysyrphus are aphid predators, though specific larval ecology for this species is not documented.
Dasysyrphus pacificus
Dasysyrphus pacificus is a species of hoverfly (family Syrphidae) originally described from the Pacific Northwest region of North America. The species is currently recognized as a synonym of Dasysyrphus pauxillus. Hoverflies in this genus are commonly known as 'flower flies' due to their frequent presence at flowers, where adults feed on nectar and pollen. The larvae of Dasysyrphus species are predatory, typically feeding on aphids and other small soft-bodied insects.
Deraeocoris aphidiphagus
Deraeocoris aphidiphagus is a species of plant bug in the family Miridae. The species epithet 'aphidiphagus' suggests a diet specializing on aphids. It has been documented in the eastern United States, with specific records from Georgia and West Virginia. As a member of the genus Deraeocoris, it likely functions as a predatory mirid, though direct behavioral observations remain limited.
Deraeocoris ruber
red-spotted plant bug, Mirid Bug
Deraeocoris ruber, commonly known as the red-spotted plant bug, is a medium-sized predatory mirid bug native to Europe that has been introduced to the Nearctic and Neotropical realms. Adults measure 6–8 mm and display variable coloration from light brown or orange to black, with a diagnostic red cuneus. The species is univoltine, with adults active from July to September. It is an important biological control agent, feeding primarily on aphids and other small insects.
Didea
lucent flies
Didea is a Holarctic genus of hoverflies (Syrphidae) commonly known as lucent flies. Adults are large-bodied, measuring 10–15 mm, with distinctive black and yellow coloration. The genus is notable for its late-season flight activity and predatory larvae that feed on arboreal aphids.
Didea alneti
Didea alneti is a Holarctic hoverfly species with a wide distribution spanning Europe, Asia, and North America. Adults are arboreal, descending to visit flowers of various herbaceous plants and shrubs. The larvae are arboreal predators that feed on aphids associated with trees including Larix, Prunus, Salix, and Quercus.
Diomus
lady beetles, ladybirds
Diomus is a genus of small lady beetles (Coccinellidae) comprising at least 20 described species. Species within this genus exhibit diverse ecological strategies, including generalist predation on mealybugs and aphids, as well as specialized myrmecophilous associations. Several species have been evaluated or employed as biological control agents against agricultural pests such as the papaya mealybug (Paracoccus marginatus), yellow sugarcane aphid (Sipha flava), and cassava mealybug (Phenacoccus manihoti). The genus shows notable variation in habitat associations, from agricultural crops to ant nests.