A close-up of a ladybug on a cabbage plant on a certified organic farm. Ladybugs are examples of beneficial insects, and prey upon harmful crop pests such as aphids. Most pesticides are broad spectrum, and when applied kill all insects, including those that are advantageous. Organic farming works to harness the power of these beneficial insects and reduce the harmful impacts typically associated with food production. Rio Gozo Farm, Ojai, California.