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Status of Insects in North America

In progress

Regional focus

North America

Insects are integral to the function of Earth's terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. They pollinate more than 90% of flowering plants, are a major food source for wildlife, and play an important role in the regulation of animal and plant populations and in the decomposition of dead plants and animals, and other organic matter. This study will focus on the status of insects in North America, which includes the United States, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, and Central America.

About Past Events

Description

An ad hoc study committee of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine will conduct a consensus study on the status of insects in North America to assess trends, identify research priorities, and suggest actions to address impaired ecosystem function related to changes in insect status. The study will focus on several critical questions, including:

  • What is the evidence for long-term changes, such as in abundance, biomass, diversity, and range of insects?
  • For demonstrably changing populations, where are shifts projected to be most pronounced, what taxa are most at risk, and what factors are implicated?
  • What have been the actual and potential economic, ecological, and evolutionary consequences of changes in insect status over time?
  • What research and monitoring needs should receive priority attention from federal and other funding agencies, as well as stakeholders?
  • What actions can be taken to address impaired ecosystem function related to changes in insect status?

Contributors

Committee

Chair

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Staff Officer

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Sponsors

Grantham Foundation

Moore Foundation

National Academies Presidents’ Committee

Rockefeller Family Fund

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Staff

April Melvin

Lead

Mitchell Hebner

Albaraa Sarsour

Katelyn Crews

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