Insects outweigh humanity by a factor of 17. Insects are disappearing faster than other species on Earth. Scientists estimate 40% of all insect species will become endangered over the next several decades. Butterflies and moths have declined by 53%. Grasshoppers and crickets have declined by 50%. Bee species have declined by 40%. Both specialist and generalist insects are being impacted. Habitat loss, pollution, pesticides, industrial waste, parasites, and pathogens are all contributing to insect loss. Scientists believe by 2050, half of all land should be protected for wildlife.
Insects provide three important benefits to life on Earth. One being pollination-pollination creates food and vegetables. No pollination means no food. Pollination also allows plants to produce seeds, seeds are necessary for a plant to reproduce. The third benefit is a food source for reptiles, amphibians, and other wildlife.