A collection of scientists have claimed that the brewing 'insect apocalypse' can be reversed if we now make dramatic, urgent changes in the ways that humans act in agriculture and other ways (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/jan/06/urgent-new-roadmap-to-recovery-could-reverse-insect-apocalypse-aoe). They argue that we must first identify which species are the most important herbivores, detritivores, parasitoids, pollinators and food species for maintaining a healthy and diverse ecology (this, of course, will vary from area to area and people might well feel differently about some species e.g. the wasp and the mosquito). They then suggest that we must rapidly curtail the use of insecticides, as well as reducing habitat fragmentation and the introductions of alien species. I personally feel that this collective action is even less likely than coordinated efforts to limit climate change. Hoping that I am wrong.
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
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Birder's Bonus 241
Noted a Curlew ( Numenius arquata ) on the Loughor estuary at Bynea.
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Greater spearwort ( Ranunculus lingua ) has been used in traditional medicine to treat rheumatism, skin conditions and digestive problems.
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Green buckwheat ( Fagopyrum tartaricum ) is also called 'Tartar buckwheat'. It's a domesticated food plant, producing kernels. ...
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Daily shots of my fully compostable Oyster mushroom pot, received for Christmas. Omelettes ahoy!
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