Ecosystem Services of Insects

Abstract

Ecosystem services are benefits that humans derive from ecosystem processes. These arise from numerous interactions between plants, animals, and their environments. The term "nature's services" was coined in the 1970s in response to increasing destruction of natural habitat and urban development with damaging environmental impacts. The term was originally used as a communication tool to promote conservation and protection of nature by increasing public awareness of the vital benefits from natural ecosystem functions. The concept was then formalized in 1997 as a rigorous framework for research, communication, and decision-making. Effective use of the ecosystem services framework depends on knowledge of the natural history and ecological functions of ecosystems and organisms that contribute to these services, as well as understanding human social and cultural relationships with them.