Spotlight on insects: trends, threats and conservation challenges

• DOI: 10.1111/icad.12409
• Publication Date: 2020-03-04T09:14:22Z
• Authors: Raphael K. Didham; Francesca Barbero; C. Matilda Collins; Matthew L. Forister; Christopher Hassall; Simon R. Leather; Laurence Packer; Manu E. Saunders; Alan J. A. Stewart
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 570; Science & Technology; 0602 Ecology; Biodiversity & Conservation; 590; 0608 Zoology; Citizen science; 15. Life on land; 01 natural sciences; population trends; monitoring; 13. Climate action; Biodiversity Conservation; insect conservation; 0502 Environmental Science and Management; Citizen science; global insect decline; insect conservation; monitoring; population trends; Life Sciences & Biomedicine; Entomology; global insect decline

Abstract There is mounting concern over the conservation status and long‐term trends in insect populations. Many populations have been reported to be falling many species are threatened with extinction. While this true, evidence does not support unqualified statements of ‘global decline’. Global environmental change affect all equally, there clear winners as well losers from anthropogenic impacts. In special issue Insect Conservation Diversity , we draw together articles that (i) identify key challenges robust inference about population trends, (ii) present new empirical for declines (and increases) populations, spanning whole communities down single species, both aquatic terrestrial ecosystems, (iii) address interacting drivers change, studies correlates, experimental manipulation driving mechanisms. We argue way forward includes more nuanced language approaches when communicating ecological peer public audiences, beyond just a simplistic focus on decline narrative. This will require an expanded portfolio promote value insects society, which turn, should reinforce social licence prioritise research. help us deliver rigorous science necessary document ongoing understand mechanisms change. Only then able mitigate or reverse declining