Work

Restoring insect diversity enhances biodegradation and pollination services in forest ecosystems

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Insects play a pivotal role in ecosystem functioning by mediating essential services such as biodegradation and pollination. This study, conducted over two years (2023 and 2024), assessed the impact of insect diversity restoration on biodegradation and pollination in a protected forest. Data collected before and after restoration indicated a significant increase in insect-mediated ecosystem services. The abundance of decomposer insects like Collembolans increased from 5.02 % to 7.50 %, while wood-decomposing beetles rose by 15.16 % and 23.00 %. The key pollinators such as Bombus spp. (bumble bees) and honey bees showed notable improvements in activity on crops. These findings highlight the necessity of conserving insect diversity for ecosystem balance and productivity. Restoration strategies including habitat preservation and eco-friendly practices are vital.

Source: Plant Science Today

DOI: 10.14719/pst.10520

Authors: R K Gupta, B Kamlesh, B Ranjana

Institution: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu

Language: English

Topic: Plant and animal studies

Subfield: Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India