Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators CORE Exam

Why are beneficial insects important to agriculture?

1. They repel all pests

2. They often compete with crops for nutrients

3. They pollinate plants and feed on harmful insects

4. They have no role in agriculture

The correct answer is: They pollinate plants and feed on harmful insects

Beneficial insects play a crucial role in agriculture primarily because they contribute to both pest management and plant reproduction. They help control pest populations by preying on harmful insects, which reduces the reliance on chemical pesticides and supports integrated pest management strategies. This natural pest control promotes healthier crops and can lead to increased yields while minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, many beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, are vital pollinators. They facilitate the pollination of various crops, which is essential for fruit and seed production. Without these insects, many plants would have lower reproduction rates, leading to reduced crop availability. The other possibilities do not accurately represent the role of beneficial insects. While it's true that they do not repel all pests, compete with crops for nutrients, or have no role at all, their positive impact through predation and pollination makes them indispensable for sustainable agricultural practices.