What Do Wasps Provide For the Environment?
WouterDespite the fact that wasps are feared by many, they offer many benefits to the environment. These insects are the top predators of many pest insects and they can help to control the population. In addition, they are useful pollinators.
Wasps are the leading predators of crop-damaging insects. They are also important in biological control programs. They kill aphids, caterpillars and other insects. They are also a key part of the food chain and have the ability to eat millions of kilograms of insects each year. They also help to control the spread of diseases.
They also decompose biomass and pollinate flowers. These activities contribute to a global economy worth $250 billion per year.
Wasps are also important in the environment because they have a strong ecological resilience. They can survive in environments where many other animals are not able to thrive. These insects provide an important source of food for many birds. In addition, they help to regulate the populations of other arthropods.
Scientists have not been able to understand why the populations of insects have been declining for so long. However, climate change has been identified as a potential cause. If insect populations continue to decline, the environment will suffer. Without predators, pest populations can become uncontrollable.
The best way to appreciate the value of wasps is to see them for yourself. They are fascinating creatures and they have many useful roles. You can learn more about them at the American Museum of Natural History online. They also have interactive tools to help children learn about entomology.
