UK entomologist says there is concern about something happening to insects worldwide

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - For many, insects can be seen as pests.

However, new data is showing a decline in bug populations across the globe.

“It is something we are concerned with in the world of entomology,” said Jonathon Larson, UK’s Extension Entomologist.

There are over 1 million different types of insects, and Kentucky is home to 10,000 species alone. However, recent studies show that 40% of all insect species are declining globally and that a third are endangered.

“There does seem to be some data that supports the idea that insects, in general, are on the decline. For some people, that might seem like something they might celebrate, but truthfully, it’s bad for everything on the bottom of the pyramid in our ecosystem,” said Larson.

Some of the reasons cited for the decline are pollution and habitat loss through urbanization.

“Some have referred to it as the insect apocalypse. Others have referred to it as the windshield phenomenon,” said Larson.

Not all bugs are welcomed, however. Kentucky currently struggles with a few invasive species, like aphids, that harm crops grown in the Bluegrass. However, Larson says it’s about how removing small insects affects the big picture of our ecosystem.

“Insects are the things that a lot of things eat.” Larson continued, “If they start to go we are going to start to see effects on birds, frogs, lizards – you name it. And that’s going to effect the next tier and the next tier and the next tier all the way until it gets to us, the top of the pyramid.”

But for many - it starts with focusing on the right questions in order to protect our small friends.

“I think that we have to think about things on a bigger scale, frankly. What sorts of resources do we provide for these sort of small things that we don’t normally consider? Are there floral resources for pollinators? Are there places for butterflies to lay their eggs? If there are, how are they going to get there – do they have to fly between Nicholasville Road and all the cars? Things are changing all over the place. And we have to deal with the consequences and figure out ways to help the other animals of our planet,” said Larson.