Insect Information

There are about one million species of insects known to occur in the world, but there are many more that haven’t been described.  Out of that number, only about a thousand species of insects are known pests.  What are the benefits of insects?  There are many and here is some information.

They Create a Biological Foundation

           They cycle nutrients

            Pollinate plants

            Disperse Seeds

            Maintain soil structure and fertility

            Control other organisms

            They are also a major feed source

 Shred leaves and tunnel into wood which increases plant decay and develops humus which is a type of soil rich in organic matter

They feed on dead animals

They feed on animal poop which removes poop from vegetation important for grazing.

Tunnel into the ground which gets air and water access to the roots

Deforestation and agriculture kill many insects.

Pesticides kill all insects and many birds and animals that feed on poisoned insects.

After contaminating the planet and killing many beneficial insects and other animals, pesticides have not controlled or eliminated a single pest species.  We have poisoned our ambient air, potable water, food, wildlife, livestock, pets and people, and we have lost the war against pests.

This is some of the issues I will be talking about next week in that meeting with the NM Wildlife Federation.