A global crash in insect populations has found its way to Australia, with entomologists across the country reporting lower than average numbers of wild insects.
 |
| Entomologists are concerned Australia's insect populations are in decline. |
University of Sydney entomologist Dr Cameron Webb said researchers around the world widely acknowledge that insect populations are in decline, but are at a loss to determine the cause.
"On one hand it might be the widespread use of insecticides, on the other hand it might be urbanisation and the fact that we're eliminating some of the plants where it's really critical that these insects complete their development," Dr Webb said.
"Add in to the mix climate change and sea level rise and it's incredibly difficult to predict exactly what it is."
Entomologist and owner of the Australian Insect Farm, near Innisfail in far north Queensland, Jack Hasenpusch is usually able to collect swarms of wild insects at this time of year.
Read the ABC News story by Mark Rigby - “Insect population decline leaves Australian scientists scratching for solutions.”
No comments:
Post a Comment