US butterfly populations drop by 22% in two decades, study says

The number of the butterfly in the United States has shrunk by more than five in two decades, according to a new study.

The numbers decreased by 22 % between 2000 and 2020, according to research conducted by the University of Binghamton in New York.

A third of the species has seen a dangerous decrease, as some, such as the leader of Julia, lost more than 90 % of its population.

However, researchers say butterflies may be able to recover if urgent conservation measures are taken.

The study published in Science Magazine The measured butterfly “abundance” – the number of individuals of species within a specific area. She analyzed 12.6 million butterfly viewers from 76,000 survey studies through 35 monitoring programs.

This included data from citizens ’science programs such as the fourth charges of July from the Butterfly Association in North America.

Using statistical models, they appreciate the trends of the population for 342 species.

The results showed that 33 % was significantly, as many severe losses – 107 types decreased by more than 50 %.

“While the results that are in line with global trends, seeing the extent of the decline in this large spatial scope was realistic,” said Professor Elisa Garmam, a professor of biological science at the University of Binghamton.

Some of the most affected species include Florida White, Hymes Al -Nahhas, Al -Bayril Al -Tahili, Mitchell, and Wittri White White, all of which decreased abundantly by more than 98 % in the United States.

The West Coast lady, who was one day butterfly in the backyard, decreased by 80 %, which increased the alert as these types are very adaptive.

“This is worrying because it indicates that the common butterflies are not safe,” said Professor Garm.

Loss of habitats, pesticides and climate change are major reasons for this decline, according to researchers.

Butterflies are decisive pollinators, support for plants and crops. Experts say their decline may disrupt the entire food production and ecosystems.

It also works as indicators of environmental health – when the butterfly numbers decrease, it indicates a problem in other types.

The researchers say that the species are very decreasing in the southwest of the United States, and it is one of the hottest and most dizzy areas. They believe that drought may be a major contributor to these losses.

“Drought represents a dual threat – it harms butterflies directly and also affects their food and host,” Professor Grames explained.

Results can help with important conservation efforts, such as giving priority to the species to the International Federation for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the red list of threatened species and protecting the Law of Endangered Species.

Despite the decrease, there is hope for recovery.

“The butterflies can quickly recover because they have short generation times. Small procedures such as cultivation of wildflowers, reduce pesticides, or even leave part of the unpopular backyard can significantly improve their chances,” said Professor Professor.

She also stressed the need to take government measures.

“Insects are essential in life on Earth, and we need the procedures and memorization policies that support insects.”