Do Mosquitoes Help the Earth?
Whether mosquitoes help the earth or not, we must admit that they are an important part of the ecosystem. There are a number of species that rely on them for food, pollination, and disease transmission. But, if all of them disappeared, how would the ecosystem change? Would animals rely on other insects, or would they find other ways to survive? And would humans be left without their itchy bumps and warts?
Many people have wondered whether mosquitoes help the earth. They are a part of the ecosystem that helps humans stay alive, facilitates plants, and keeps predators at bay. However, they also carry pathogens that can kill humans. These pathogens can cause illnesses such as malaria. They are also the primary carrier of yellow fever.
The mosquito is known to be the world’s oldest pest. Scientists believe they have been around for more than 100 million years. In fact, the scales of mosquitoes have been found in flower fossils dating from the mid-Cretaceous era. But despite their longevity, many people would like to get rid of them.
Some biologists believe that the extinction of mosquitoes would have devastating effects on the environment. For instance, it would reduce the number of migratory birds by half, reduce the number of animal corpses, and affect the smell of decomposing matter.
Other species would flourish in their place. Some would eat mosquitoes, and others would move onto other insects. Those species would help the ecosystem by providing food for animals and by pollinating plants.