What animals help crops grow?

Many species of animals help to make crops grow by controlling different organisms in the agroecosystem. For instance, predatory beetles, like ladybugs and ground beetles, feed on aphids, whiteflies, and other small insects that can damage crops. Additionally, spiders, parasitic wasps, and birds prey upon insect pests that feed on crops. Lastly, certain earthworms, insects, small mammals, and larger animals (such as elephants and hippopotamuses) contribute to the tilth and aeration of the soil, which helps crops grow.

Furthermore, there are a number of species that may damage crops at certain times, while also benefiting the same crop at other times of the year. For instance, ladybugs feed primarily on insects, but they are known to eat pollen and fruit from plants as well. Honeybees are essential for pollinating many plants, but at the same time, they can also spread pests and diseases from plant to plant. Likewise, many species of birds will feed upon insects that damage crops, but they can also spread seeds of undesirable weeds that compete with crops.