Insect numbers have decreased by half in some parts of the world due to climate change an intensive agriculture, a study has found. The combined pressures of global heating and farming are driving a “substantial (大规模的) decline” of insects across the globe, according to UK researchers.
Lead researcher, Dr Charlie Outhwaite of UCL, said losing insect populations could be harmful not only to the natural environment, but to human health and food security, particularly with losses of pollinator (传粉昆虫). “Our findings highlight the urgency of actions to preserve natural habitats, slow the expansion of high-intensity agriculture, and cut emissions to reduce climate change,” she added.
In the latest study, the researchers pulled together data on the range and number of nearly 20, 000 insect species, including bees, ants, butterflies, grasshoppers and dragonflies, at about 6, 000 different locations. In areas with high-intensity agriculture and substantial warming, insect numbers have decreased by 49%, compared with relatively untouched places that have so far avoided the most severe impacts of climate change, according to the research published in Nature.
But the researchers said there was some cause for hope. Setting aside areas of land for nature creates a refuge(庇护所) for insects, which need shade to survive in hot weather. “Careful management of agricultural areas, such as preserving natural habitats near farmland, may help to ensure that vital insects can still survive,” said Dr Tim Newbold, also of UCL.
Study researcher, Peter McCann, added, “We need to acknowledge how important insects are for the environment as a whole, and for human health and well-being, in order to address the threats we pose to them before many species are lost forever. ”
36. According to Charlie Outhwaite, how could we stop losing insect numbers?
A.Give up developing agriculture. |
B.Take action to protect natural habitat. |
C.Highlight the importance of food security. |
D.Focus on reproducing all sorts of insects. |
37. How did the researchers draw the conclusion in the latest study?
A.By analyzing data. |
B.By carrying out a survey. |
C.By doing experiments. |
D.By discussing questions. |
38. What is Tim Newbold’s attitude to preserving insects?
A.Worried. | B.Hopeful. | C.Doubtful. | D.Indifferent. |
39. Which of the following can be the best title for the text?
A.Some rare insect species dying out |
B.Natural habitats helping insects survive |
C.Insect decline bringing great damage to humans |
D.Climate change and farming driving insect decline |