Hello, I'm an expert in the field of entomology, which is the study of insects. I'd be happy to help answer your question about the diet of ladybirds, also known as ladybugs or lady beetles.

Ladybirds are known to be beneficial insects, especially in agricultural settings, because they are predators of various types of pests. The primary diet of ladybirds consists of aphids, which are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause significant damage to plants. Besides aphids, ladybirds also consume other soft-bodied insects such as scale insects, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests are harmful to a wide range of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.

Ladybirds are particularly attracted to plants that are infested with these pests because it provides them with a ready food source. In addition to the pests mentioned, some species of ladybirds may also eat pollen or nectar if their preferred prey is scarce.

It's important to note that while ladybirds are generally beneficial, some species can be pests themselves, especially when their populations become too large and they start to feed on plant material.

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Even larval ladybugs eat aphids. They also eat other insects that have soft bodies, like mites, white flies, and scale insects �C all of which are pests of plants. Ladybugs mainly eat aphids, so farmers and gardeners love ladybugs!read more >>