Insects play critical role in ecosystems beyond just providing food, new research shows
Summary
A new study explains that insects do much more than just serve as food for many animals like birds and mammals. Insects also help protect species, keep environments clean, provide shelter, and play a key role in natural processes like breaking down dead plants.Key Facts
- Around 75% of land and freshwater vertebrates eat insects and other invertebrates.
- Some animals use insects for non-food purposes, such as chimpanzees using insects to treat wounds.
- More than 200 bird species use ants to remove parasites and maintain their feathers.
- Birds, reptiles, and mammals often live in termite mounds or ant nests, which provide safe and stable places to rest.
- Insects like dung beetles help clean up animal waste, which reduces parasites and disease spread.
- Some animals, like sloths, have mutual relationships with insects that help both survive.
- Insects help decompose about 30% of dead leaves and wood, influencing the global carbon cycle.
- Changes to land use are causing big disruptions to insect populations, which could harm ecosystems.
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