One in five butterfly species in the united states has disappeared over the last 20 years, according to a recent study. The declines were particularly significant in the Southwestern region, while the Pacific Northwest experienced the least reduction. This alarming trend highlights a broader biodiversity crisis affecting various regions.
- Declines most prominent in Southwestern U.S.
- Pacific Northwest shows least decline.
- Over 100 species declined over 50%.
- 22 species declined more than 90%.
- Butterfly declines reported in Europe, North America.
- Biodiversity issues are increasingly concerning.
The study indicates that more than 100 butterfly species have seen population drops greater than 50% since the early 2000s. Among these, 22 species have declined by more than 90%. Notable examples include the Hermes copper, tailed orange, West Virginia white, California patch, and sandhill skipper butterflies. These findings reflect a concerning trend for biodiversity across North America.
Monika Böhm, co-chair of the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s SSC Butterfly & Moth Specialist Group, commented on the findings: “While the numbers reported in this paper are sobering, they sadly don’t come as a surprise.” She noted that similar declines have been observed wherever butterflies are monitored, primarily in Europe and North America.
The implications of these trends extend beyond just butterflies; they signal broader environmental issues impacting ecosystems globally. As butterflies serve as vital pollinators and indicators of ecological health, their decline raises alarms about habitat loss and climate change effects on biodiversity.
This report underscores critical concerns regarding butterfly populations in the U.S., reflecting larger patterns of biodiversity loss that require urgent attention from conservationists and policymakers alike.
