Insects as Bioindicators: Using Entomofauna to Monitor Ecosystem Health
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Insects play an important role in many ecosystem processes, including pollination, decomposition, nutrient cycling, and predation within food webs. They make up more than 80% of animal species. Their variety, short life spans, and sensitivity to environmental disturbances make them useful bioindicators for assessing ecosystem health. This research assessed insect diversity in three habitats of Bhopal Van Vihar National Park, agricultural areas, and Upper Lake, to determine ecosystem conditions. A total of 87 species were detected and classified into sensitive and tolerant categories. The findings indicated that Van Vihar National Park demonstrated the most variety and richness, agricultural lands presented intermediate diversity, while Upper Lake revealed the least, suggesting considerable ecological stress. Statistical investigations validated robust connections between insect diversity and environmental variables, including plant cover and pH levels. These results highlight the significance of entomofauna as bioindicators for ecological assessment and conservation strategy development.
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