Insects, spiders are integral to environment, says expert

Entomologists and experts are calling for greater public awareness regarding the critical role insects and spiders play in maintaining ecological balance. They emphasize the need for citizen science to document biodiversity before species are lost to environmental degradation.
Why it matters
Insects are essential for pollination and food security; documenting their decline is vital for conservation and agricultural sustainability.
“Insects and spiders are among the most important elements of nature. Their role is integral to environment. Unfortunately, their role is least appreciated. They play an indispensable role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity and ensuring food security,” entomologist and founder-director of the Entomon Institute of Invertebrate Zoology, Pune, Ishan Pahade has said.
He was delivering the sixth Fundamental Memorial Lecture on Wonders of the Insect World at the Mindwave Edu Hub auditorium in Dharwad on Sunday.
“These tiny organisms form the foundation of healthy ecosystems by pollinating plants, recycling nutrients, controlling pests and serving as food for birds, amphibians and several other animals,” he said.
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