Decline of insect populations

Insect decimation
Loss of insects

Nature

The decline of insect populations, often referred to as "insect apocalypse," is a significant environmental issue characterized by a rapid decrease in the abundance and diversity of insect species worldwide. Factors contributing to this decline include habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and pollution. Insects play crucial roles in ecosystems, such as pollination, decomposition, and serving as food for other wildlife. Their decline threatens biodiversity, agricultural productivity, and ecosystem stability, raising concerns about food security and the health of natural environments. Addressing this problem is essential for maintaining ecological balance and supporting human livelihoods.

Background

Insects are basic to thousands of food chains. Insects are the primary source for ecosystem creation and support. Nutrition for humans happens because insects pollinate. The world literally crumbles apart without insects burrowing, forming new soil, aerating soil, pollinating food crops, etc.

Incidence

One of the world’s best and oldest entomological resources is Krefeld Entomological Society (est. 1905) tracking insect abundance at more than 100 nature reserves. They first noticed a significant drop off of insects in 2013 when the total mass of catch fell by 80%. Again, in 2014 the numbers were just as low. Subsequently, the society discovered huge declines in several observation sites throughout Western Europe. Many conservationists view a special class of pesticides called neonicotinoids — used over many years in Europe until a partial ban in 2013 — as the prime suspect for insect losses.

North America and Europe species of birds like larks, swallows, and swifts that feed on flying insects have plummeted; for example, the disappearance of Britain’s farmland birds. Of particular concern is the widespread use of pesticides and their impact on non-target species.

The Senckenberg Entomological Institute/Frankfurt recorded a 40% decline in butterfly and Burnet moth species over a period of decades.

Claim

The massive loss of insects has everything to do with three generations of industrialized farming and the vast tide of poisons pouring over the landscape year-after-year, especially since the end of WWII. There are many indications that what we see is the result of a widespread poisoning of our landscape.

Counter-claim

The alarmist narrative surrounding the decline of insect populations is vastly overstated. Insects are resilient and adaptable creatures that have thrived for millions of years. Their fluctuations are a natural part of ecological balance. Focusing on this issue distracts from more pressing environmental concerns, such as climate change and habitat destruction. Instead of panicking over insects, we should prioritize solutions that address the broader, more significant threats to our planet's health and biodiversity.