Insects often garner a bad reputation because of their unfamiliar appearance and habits.
However, although there are more than one million described species, less than one percent are considered to be pests. The rest are either completely harmless or are beneficial. It is common knowledge that honey bees pollinate food crops, but some other insects are similarly beneficial. For example, a vast majority of the wildflowers in eastern forests develop from seeds planted by ants. Insects are also important as food for wildlife, and greatly assist with nutrient recycling and soil development.