Fireflies have captivated our imagination with their choreographed dance of lights, each species emitting a pattern distinct from the other. These dainty creatures are among the 900, 000 species of insects that have been recorded from around the world – 40% of which have shown a marked decline in the last 4 decades.
Introduction of invasive species, increased urbanization, pesticide use, and climate change are some of the contributing factors that have led to this dwindling number. Although we seldom realize, insects contribute nearly $1.75 trillion to the global economy through their numerous ecosystem services – as pollinators, in biological control of pests, aiding in recycling soil nutrients, etc.
The survival of these tiny organisms is vital to our existence and our livelihood, and therefore we should take the necessary measures to safeguard their population.
