Interconnected realities: climate change and the surge of locust swarms draw heightened attention in recent years
A recent research article in the journal Science Advances suggests that climate change might stimulate heightened winds and precipitation, potentially resulting in more frequent occurrences of desert locust outbreaks. These migratory insects, increasingly recognized as significant agricultural pests in various regions of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, could proliferate rapidly due to the effects of climate change. Scientists warn that such proliferation could inflict considerable harm on crops and food security in neighboring areas.
Global urgency: research reveals escalating locust threats and the critical link to climate change
The research indicates that areas like Morocco and Kenya continue to face significant vulnerability, despite the expansion of locust habitats since 1985. Projections suggest that these habitats will further expand by a minimum of 5% by the close of the 21st century, encompassing regions such as western India and western Central Asia. One notable instance is the Rub al-Khali, a desert in the southern Arabian Peninsula historically spared from insect infestations. Nevertheless, the year 2019 witnessed locust outbreaks triggered by cyclones, signaling a shift in the region’s dynamics.
Professor Xiaogang He, hailing from the National University of Singapore,notes that researchers have identified a strong relationship between climate change and an increase in the frequency and scale of locust outbreaks. They believe that more recurring extreme weather occurrences will be the main cause of instability in locust distribution in the future. Scientists emphasize the importance of international cooperation between countries and organizations to develop early warning systems and control insect outbreaks. They also call for improved strategies to alleviate the effects of climate change on farming and food safety.
Recent events, including significant infestations of locusts in East Africa during the period from 2019 to 2020, highlight the need for an international response to the insect threat. Scientists warn that continued neglect of the problem could have serious consequences for global food security and the economy.
Destroying insects: impacts of locust outbreaks on ecosystems
For centuries, locust plagues have resulted in substantial agricultural losses and ecosystems around the world. These insects, gathering in huge swarms, can devastate entire areas of the earth, devouring all vegetation in their path. The main damage caused by locusts is the destruction of crops and reduced yields. Just one swarm of locusts can devour arable land in a matter of days, leaving behind charred and dried fields. This leads to significant economic losses for farmers and society as a whole, worsening food security and causing hunger and poverty. In addition, locust outbreaks can lead to the destruction of natural ecosystems. After devouring all the vegetation, they leave behind naked and depersonalized soil, devoid of a fertile layer. This could lead to soil erosion and soil degradation resources and loss of biodiversity. It is equally important to note the environmental consequences of locust control. To prevent their destructive infestations, chemical pesticides are often used, which can be detrimental to both the environment and human health. They pollute the soil, water and air, poisoning not only insects, but also other living beings. Thus, locust infestations represent a significant peril to agriculture and the environmental sustainability of the regions that are affected by them. Awareness of this problem and development of sustainable control strategies are important steps to protect crops,preserve biodiversity and guarantee food security.