Insect Populations Have Declined by 75% over Thirty Years

According to the findings of a recent study, insect populations have declined to an alarming level in certain areas in Germany. This is a huge problem because according to scientists, natural ecosystems and even crop production could be very affected.

This study was published on Wednesday in the journal PLOS One, and it claims that in what concerns German natural reserves, the populations of insects have declined by about 75% over 27 years, the timespan of the study. Because of this decrease in insect numbers and diversity, the planet’s natural ecosystems will have a lot to suffer. In time, this phenomenon will create an imbalance and could even trigger a snowball effect.

Insect populations have decreased alarmingly

Experts are saying that they have long suspected this decrease and even gathered some proof. It’s interesting that this particular study doesn’t take species one by one, but puts all flying insects in one category. This way, the researchers were able to see the decrease more prominently. Also, if such a thing happens in protected areas, imagine just how bad is the decrease in other zones. Because certainly, this trend has affected insect populations around the globe too.

The recent study also claims that the number of insects decreases regardless of the habitat they’re in. But what are the reasons behind this phenomenon? Researchers are saying that things like pesticides, the decrease of insect habitats and even climate change could play a part in it.

Experts are also explaining that people should stop underestimating the importance that insects have on a global scale. They are about 70% of all animal species on Earth. Even if we’re sometimes scared or grossed out by them, they are one of the most important players that keep the planet’s organism working. They are the most important parts of biodiversity. And without it, humans wouldn’t exist.

Image source: pixabay

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Anne-Marie Jackson

Anna grew up on a steady diet of 20th century literature, science-fiction movies and Viking lore. Unsurprisingly she turned into a technology geek with an inclination for history & fantasy.