Bayer Babacan Yarış
Renowned entomologist and faculty member at Ondokuz Mayıs University's (OMU) Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Dr. İzzet Akça, has revealed a startling link between global warming and a surge in specific insect populations. "Our studies show that an average annual temperature increase of just one degree can lead to a two to threefold increase in the generations of specific insect species," explained Prof. Akça. This rise, he warns, could lead to a 20-30% increase in crop damage, depending on the insect variety.
Prof. Akça highlighted the crucial role of insects, which constitute nearly two-thirds of all living species, in maintaining ecological balance. He drew attention to the existence of over two million identified insect species worldwide. "Roughly speaking, one-third of these insects are harmful, one-third are beneficial, and the rest are neutral," he commented. However, global warming is negatively impacting our battle against these creatures due to changes in their biological makeup.
Insects, known for their rapid reproduction and longevity, are increasingly thriving due to global warming. "Recent years have seen a significant increase in insect numbers as rising temperatures boost their reproductive capacities," Prof. Akça continued. "The increased warmth has resulted in a 2-3 times increase in generations of certain insect species annually. This surge significantly heightens their potential to damage crops by 20-30%. With global warming, we're seeing harmful insect species spread to new regions, causing growing damage to agricultural produce. For instance, due to global warming, the tomato leaf miner (Tuta absoluta) has spread to different areas.
Moreover, the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys), a species previously not seen in our country, entered from Georgia in 2017. This invasive species rapidly proliferates with rising temperatures. Temperature increases lead to faster insect reproduction rates, higher migration rates, and longer lifespans."
Akça pointed out that insects pose threats not only to plants but also to animal and human health. "The proliferation of respiring living organisms can contribute more greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, thereby exacerbating environmental damage. At OMU, we are engaged in joint efforts with the ministry to combat the stink bug, one of the major problems in our region. We are also conducting individual studies to understand the impact of temperature increases on insect populations and the natural balance."
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