Ecological Niche and Functional Role of Predatory Insects in Organic Farming Systems

Abstract

Predatory insects play a critical role in natural pest control. This study surveyed lady beetles, lacewings, and predatory wasps across 18 organic farms in Eastern Europe. Population dynamics, prey preference, and biodiversity indices were recorded through sticky traps and visual counts.
Lady beetles (Coccinella septempunctata) dominated in aphid-infested plots, while lacewings contributed more in flowering strips. Farms with greater plant diversity supported higher predator abundance and pest suppression. Enhancing ecological niches for beneficial insects is vital for long-term agroecosystem stability.