Topic: Research News
Researchers from the University of Montana found that insects have trouble moving upslope due to low oxygen levels and air pressure. This could affect pollination services, crop production, and ecosystem functioning.
Low oxygen levels and air pressure at higher elevations may limit insects' ability to move upslope to escape a warming climate. A new review in the journal Functional Ecology suggests that this could have serious consequences for essential services like pollination.
Under a warming climate, many species are shifting their ranges to higher elevations to remain in suitable temperature zones. However, conditions at higher elevations pose unique challenges to insects because of their size, life cycle, and way of breathing.
Researchers from the University of Montana reviewed research on the physiological effects of hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and hypobaria (low pressure) on insects. They found that flying insects struggle at higher elevations because thinner air means they need to generate more lift and expend more energy flying.
Insects with active larval stages, like actively feeding caterpillars, also struggle due to their energy and oxygen demands. Insects with aquatic larval stages, like dragonflies, are already limited by the amount of oxygen in water, and this is exacerbated at higher elevations.
The study's lead researcher, Art Woods, said,
Implications
Researchers from the University of Montana found that insects have trouble moving upslope due to low oxygen levels and air pressure. This could affect pollination services, crop production, and ecosystem functioning.
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