Why are Arthropods vital for functioning of all ecosystems and for our survival?
WHAT DO ARTHROPODS DO FOR US?
They extend Vital Ecosystem Services (ES) to humankind
- They provide Food for us through crop pollination: 35% of global food production
They pollinate 60-90% of all plant species, thus keeping our Forests healthy - They provide Fruits, Honey, Nuts, Silk, Medicines
- They provide Clean Air – through survival and growth of natural resources
- They provide Clean Water – by maintaining the mineral content in freshwater resources by adding carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus as they fall into these water bodies
- They Recycle Nutrients in the soil by decomposition of organic matter.
- They act as Natural Pest Control agents
Approx. 2000 insect species are source of food for 3000 ethnic groups in 113 countries - They are at the Core of the Food Web – Birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, depend on them
- They are crucial for Proper Functioning of All Ecosystems And Our Well Being -we depend on nature for recreation and well being
WHAT DO WE DO FOR ARTHOPODS?
- We kill them – By using Pesticides, Insecticides, herbicides, Chemical Fertilizers
- We destroy their homes – through Deforestation, Urbanization, Industrialization, Mining
- We fragment their habitats – Insects have a better chance of survival where there is more continuous habitat