Though insects don’t have a backbone, they are the backbone of habitat health. The population of native insects acts as an indicator of environmental stability. Over the past forty years, many studies show there’s been a 45% decline in our insect and pollinator populations. Around 23% of pollinators are at risk of extinction. Moth, butterfly, bees, wasps, ants, and sawflies species are all facing a decline of 50%.
Insects perpetuate the cycle of decomposition by breaking down dead plants and animals, this richens surrounding soil. Pollinators make up for 75% of the flowering plant population. Another responsibility they carry is the spreading of seeds; many species feed off seeds which leads to disbursement of the plant. This diversifies plant populations, which improves water and soil qualities. They are also a source of food for other animals. If we were to see a further decline in insects, the risk begins to move up the food chain.
Of our global food supply, 35% depends on pollinators, and we will start to see a decline in the crops they help produce. This damages profits in the food industry by billions and is detrimental to farmers. We would be losing produce like vegetables, most fruits, legumes, and nuts. Many foods would also lose the nutritional value that insects provide through their relation to soil nutrients. This affects the dairy and meat industries and reduces the quality of our protein.
Habitats that insects need to reproduce and feed are also facing a decline. Climate change and deforestation are some of the largest factors in this. Air pollution destroys insects’ scent trails, reducing their foraging and mating abilities. Excessive light dysregulates insects and can lead to over-exhaustion. Water pollution decreases biodiversity, introduces chemicals into these habitats, and alters PH and oxygen levels. We are also seeing the effect of invasive insects. They compete with native ones for food and alter habitats.
Another factor in the decline is green, manicured lawns. Having a manicured lawn reduces biodiversity, breeds pests, and is usually up kept by chemicals. Pesticides, insecticides, and other chemicals are another factor impacting the decline. They disrupt nervous systems and inhibit natural compounds, which often leads to death when exposed. Sustainable farming practices can help reduce the impact we have on insects and their habitats. Using natural pest control (like ladybugs, parasitic wasps, netting, and traps) reduces the need for pesticides. Having a biodiverse lawn with native plants rather than a perfectly manicured one can also help native pollinators.
