Study finds insects support vertebrates in more ways than food

Insects support vertebrates in ecosystems through functions that extend beyond their role as prey, according to a new study published in Nature Reviews Biodiversity. The study describes insects as contributing to protection, sanitation and shelter for vertebrate species.

The findings cover relationships involving birds, bats, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. While insects provide food for many of these animals, the study identifies additional ways in which they help vertebrates survive and function within ecosystems.

Among the functions identified are protection, sanitation and shelter. The source describes these roles as critical across ecosystems and says the findings make insects a priority for conservation efforts.

The study was published on Wednesday, according to the supplied source. Its summary characterizes insects as “little things that run the world,” while emphasizing that their ecological importance is not limited to feeding other animals.