Parasitoids are organisms, often insects, that live in or on a host organism and ultimately kill it. Unlike typical parasites, which may live off their host without causing immediate harm, parasitoids have a life cycle that involves developing inside the host, leading to its death. Common examples include certain species of wasps and flies. These creatures play a crucial role in ecosystems by regulating host populations, often targeting pests that can damage crops. By controlling these pest populations, parasitoids can contribute to natural pest management, reducing the need for chemical pesticides in agriculture.