Falling insect numbers dangerous to humans
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READING:
The number of insects has fallen by 45 per cent in the past 35 years. This could be dangerous for humans. A report on this has been published in the journal 'Science'. It says the human population has doubled since 1980. The number of insects has nearly halved. One of the biggest reasons is deforestation. Land is disappearing because of new cities and farms. Another reason is global warming. In the UK, the number of beetles, butterflies, bees and wasps has fallen by up to 60 per cent. Many countries are worried about the fall in number of bees and butterflies.
Scientists say fewer insects will make many problems for humans. One of the biggest dangers is that there will be fewer insects to pollinate flowers. Farmers will have problems growing food. The lead author of the report said falling numbers of insects could also lead to more disease. He said rats and mice would have less food so they will move to cities and bring diseases with them. A professor said we must stop more insects from dying. He said scientists must understand, "what species are winning and losing in the fight for survival". This will help us to protect the "helpful" insects.
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