Aquatic insects are one of the key components of the freshwater ecosystem, which provide several ecosystem functions. Globally, over 50, 000 aquatic insect species from 13 orders are known. Several aquatic insect species are vectors of human and veterinary diseases and cause significant loss to human and livestock. However, aquatic insects, like odonates, aquatic bugs and aquatic beetles, are important predators of vectors of malaria, dengue, chikungunya, filariasis and other diseases. Unique morphology, behavioural traits and habitat specialization make them efficient predators. In addition, these predators are reliable indicators of ecosystem health. However, these predators are very sensitive to ecosystem changes and habitat alterations. Aquatic insect predators are threatened due to anthropogenic destruction of wetlands, pesticides and other aquatic pollution. Creation of suitable habitats for aquatic insect predators, especially around human habitations, gardens and institutional campuses, can significantly reduce vector populations.
CITATION STYLE
Subramanian, K. A. (2023). Aquatic Insects. In Insect Predators in Pest Management (pp. 285–296). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003370864-11
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