Pay attention to insects.

Many pollinate plants. Some recycle plant and animal matter into the soil. They are food for countless other living things—and for one another, often keeping pest populations in check. Whether beetles, bees or butterflies, insects help natural ecosystems stay healthy.

But the evidence is clear: many insect species are in decline. The ones featured here are vulnerable, imperiled—or have already disappeared—and human changes to the land and climate are primary reasons. Working with specimens from the collections of the American Museum of Natural History, photographer Levon Biss invites us to look closely at these insects—and to reflect on their importance to the planet we share. (Text courtesy of the American Museum of Natural History)

Insect decline is a significant environmental issue marked by a dramatic reduction in insect populations across the globe. Here are some key points to understand this phenomenon:

Causes of Insect Decline

1. Habitat Loss: Urban development, agriculture, and deforestation disrupt the natural habitats that insects rely on.

2. Pesticides: The use of chemical pesticides in farming and gardening can lead to direct mortality and sublethal effects on insect health and behavior.

3. Climate Change: Changing temperatures and weather patterns can affect insect life cycles, migration patterns, and availability of food sources.

4. Pollution: Pollution from industrial and agricultural sources can contaminate habitats and reduce insect populations.

5. Invasive Species: Non-native species can outcompete or prey on native insects, leading to declines in their populations.

Consequences of Insect Decline

• Ecosystem Imbalance: Insects play crucial roles in pollination, decomposition, and as a food source for other animals. Their decline can disrupt these processes.

• Biodiversity Loss: A decrease in insect diversity can lead to a cascading effect on other species that depend on them.

• Agricultural Impact: Many crops rely on insect pollination. Declines in pollinators can threaten food production and agriculture.

What Can Be Done

• Habitat Conservation: Protecting natural habitats and restoring degraded areas can help support insect populations.

• Sustainable Practices: Reducing pesticide use and adopting organic farming methods can benefit insects and the broader ecosystem.

• Public Awareness: Educating people about the importance of insects and how to protect them can lead to community action and policy changes.

Understanding and addressing insect decline is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems and the services they provide.