Ladybirds have long been regarded as some of agriculture's most useful insects. Both adults and larvae feed on aphids, scale insects and other pests that damage crops, making them valuable allies for farmers. This reputation led scientists to look beyond native species in the early 20th century and introduce the Asian lady beetle, Harmonia axyridis , into the United States as a natural way to control crop pests. The aim was to reduce pest numbers while limiting dependence on chemical pesticides.
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