A new study has analyzed over 175 scientific reviews and identified 500+ interconnected drivers behind the global decline of insects. The research, led by Binghamton University, reveals that agricultural intensification is a top driver, but it’s not the only one.
The study found that a complex network of factors contributes to insect decline, including land-use change, pollution, climate change, and human activities such as urban sprawl. However, the researchers note that focusing on individual drivers can be misleading, as systems are interconnected and impact each other.
For example, climate change may drive insect decline, but its effects can vary depending on factors like extreme precipitation, fire, and temperature. The study also highlights biases in recent literature, which tend to focus on popular insects like bees and butterflies, while neglecting less charismatic species.
To address the decline of insects, the researchers emphasize the need for a multi-pronged approach that considers multiple drivers and systems. Focusing too much on certain insects or stressors can have negative consequences for other species, many of which are overlooked in current research. The study’s findings highlight the complexity of insect decline and the need for more comprehensive conservation strategies.
Source: https://www.binghamton.edu/news/story/5513/insects-are-disappearing-due-to-agriculture-and-many-other-drivers-new-research-reveals