“The Disappearing Act: Global Insect Decline and Our Looming Ecological Catastrophe”

Spiders: turning rational humans into screaming nincompoops since forever…………………………………… (Image created in Midjourney by 3t Vakil)

News from our rainforest mountain biome in southeast Puerto Rico

As an inhabitant of Puerto Rico’s lush rainforest for the last twenty-two years, I am witnessing a devastating phenomenon firsthand: the severe decline of insect populations in our forest. I have not done a scientific study on this, and I am not an entomologist, but I live here, and am seeing it with my own eyes. I feel impelled to alert the world, as many others already have, to the harsh reality that the decreasing numbers of these tiny creatures pose an existential threat to our planet. Studies conducted over the past few decades demonstrate that insect populations are plummeting globally. This trend endangers not only the health of our ecosystems but also the stability of our food supply and, ultimately, our very existence as human beings. I feel it is urgent to delve into the causes of this decline in insect populations and the consequences that it will bring and offer some solutions to prevent this ecological crisis from escalating further, if that is possible.

Despite the crucial role that insects play in sustaining our environment, they face a daunting enemy: humans, who squeal in ignorance and fear. Phobias, hatred, and general disdain for bugs are so widespread in our society that any conservation efforts are seriously hindered. It is high time that we take this matter seriously and act decisively to prevent the disastrous consequences of insect decline. As a concerned citizen, I implore you to join me in spreading awareness about this critical issue and advocating for effective measures to protect the insect world. Our survival as a species depends on it.

1. Causes of insect decline. Mainly humans, as well as invasive species, pesticide use, habitat loss, and climate change.

A. Loss of Habitat. This is a major factor in the decline of insects. Natural ecosystems are being lost as human populations rise to make room for agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructural development. Insect populations drop because of the loss of different habitats that provide insects with food and places to breed.