Every year, on 3rd of April we celebrate World Aquatic animal Day. Among these, aquatic Insects are the most important. “Small but mighty, aquatic insects are the unsung heroes ensuring clean water and healthy ecosystems around the world.” Aquatic insects
play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy planet and life on Earth, but they face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, overfishing, and climate change. The aim is to aware and encourage people, communities, and governments to help protect them in freshwater environments. This means cutting down on pollution, saving wetlands, and using water in a way that doesn’t harm nature. Small actions, like using fewer pesticides, saving water, and protecting natural habitats, can make a big difference in bringing balance back to our ecosystems. As kids, many of us spent a lot of time by rivers, ponds, and streams, fascinated by the tiny world of aquatic life. We recall mayflies flying above the water, and dragonfly larvae crawling along the muddy ground. Although these insects were small but they helped us to understand nature better. For many of us, watching these creatures was a reminder of the lively and healthy life that exists in freshwater habitats.But recently, things have started to change. The number of aquatic insects has been slowly decreasing, and experts believe this is because of pollution, loss of habitats, and climate change. These insects are very sensitive to changes in the environment, so when their numbers drop, it’s often a sign of bigger problems in our water systems.
Aquatic insects such as mayflies, caddisflies, and water beetles, plays vital role in maintaining the health of freshwater ecosystems. For example, caddisfly larvae build protective cases from debris and help filter water, while mayfly nymphs act as decomposers, breaking down organic matter like dead plants and algae and without these insects the ecosystem would struggle to maintain balance, leading to polluted water and poor habitat conditions.Aquatic insects are also natural indicators of water quality. Scientists use their presence, abundance, and diversity as a measure of the health of water bodies. The decline in these insect populations can be a sign of increasing pollution or environmental stress. As freshwater habitats become more polluted and fragmented, it becomes increasingly difficult for these insects to thrive.
The fast decline in aquatic insect populations is serious issue. It shows that not only freshwater ecosystems are in trouble, but the health of our planet is also at risk. Pollution, city growth, and climate change are having a bigger impact than ever, disturbing the balance of nature. It’s crucial that we act quickly to protect these small but important insects and the places they live.To protect our rivers, lakes, and streams, we must first protect the tiny creatures that call them home.Aquatic Insect Day is a reminder for everyone to take action.Entomological science Academy at SKUAST Jammu, Chatha Campus, engage students, faculty, and the community together and raise awareness about the importance of aquatic insects and the need to protect our freshwater ecosystems.On this Aquatic Insect Day, let’s think about how important they are in nature and remind ourselves to protect the delicate ecosystems they rely on. They are important contributors to energy and nutrient processing, including capturing nutrients and returning them to terrestrial ecosystems and purifying water. They provide recreation to fishermen and nature lovers and are cultural symbols. By taking care of aquatic insects, we’re not just protecting small creatures; we’re helping create a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.
Professor R K Gupta, Prof Uma Shankar and Harshita (Division of Entomology SKUAST Jammu)
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