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Moths are key pollinators in Himalayan ecosystem
Why is it in news?
- Moths are widely considered as pests, but a recent study by scientists of Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has revealed that these group of insects are pollinators to a number of flowering plants in the Himalayan ecosystem.
- Under the project titled “ Assessment of Moths ( Lepidoptera ) As Significant Pollinators in the Himalayan Ecosystem of North Eastern India.
- The analysis of proboscis, a long and thread-like organ used to suck flower sap, of a dozen moth species’ revealed the presence of pollen grains.
- Most of the studies on plant pollinators or plant- pollinator network are focused on diurnal interactions between the insects and plants.
- This particular study is based on plant- moth interactions, as a nocturnal phenomenon.
- The study was carried out in states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and West Bengal.
Unique structure
- On observing the proboscis under scanning electron microscope,scientist observed that these structures are not only meant for sap sucking but are morphological designed for pollination.
- In some species of moths, the organ is found to be modified into a spine like structure and in others, a lateral canal to arrest and disperse pollen.
- Experts also pointed out that similar studies on ascertaining the role of moths in pollination are being undertaken different parts of the world.
- Usually bees, wasps and butterflies are considered as prominent pollinators.
- About 90% of the world’s flowering plants are pollinated by animals.
- Therefore, pollinators are essential for the genetic exchange among flowering plants and the biodiversity among plants.
- In India, estimates put the number of of moth species at nearly 12,000.
- Researchers have pointed out that almost two-thirds of common large moth species have declined over the last 40 years in some parts of world.
- One of main reasons for the decline is light pollution (an increase in artificial light in moth habitats).
Source
The Hindu