Species diversity and biodiversity
Why they are so important and how we can protect them.
Reports on the decline in species diversity and biodiversity and the gradual disappearance of insects are already part of our everyday lives. According to studies, the total mass of flying insects in Germany alone has decreased by 75 percent in the last three decades – with serious consequences for the environment. This is because insects play an important role in our ecosystems: more than three quarters of all flowering plants depend on pollination by insects, and they also serve as food for many animals. One important reason for the disappearance of insects is that their natural habitats are shrinking: more and more hedgerows and meadows are having to make way for modern agriculture, housing construction or industry, and more and more areas are being sealed.
Why biodiversity is so important
Most insects are dependent on certain plants that are native to the same region as the insects themselves. Modern agricultural meadows consist largely of grasses only, as they are mowed too frequently to allow the plants suitable for native insects to flower. This means that there is not enough food for most insects.
But we are gradually beginning to rethink: we can and must do something about species extinction – in politics, in our everyday lives and in the economy. And we can offer insects new habitats again, for example by insect protection meadows planting insect meadows.
How you can help the insects
Meadow instead of grass
The challenge seems overwhelming. And yet, everyone can do something to protect species in their immediate surroundings.
Our gardens are a major lever – because the combined area of all private gardens in Germany is roughly as large as the area of all nature reserves!
You can also make a difference on a small scale: by mowing less often, using local flowers and herbs, rethinking your attitude to “weeds” or creating winter quarters for insects.
Sowing diversity
With good seeds for wildflowers, you can not only create your own meadow you can also turn traffic islands and verges into oases for insects. Asking the local authorities can be a good starting point here.
Nature instead of breeding
Many flowers are so overbred that insects can no longer reach the nectar or pollen in their blossoms. Next time you plant, make sure you sow or plant local flowers with unfilled blossoms – these are much more suitable for wild bees, bumblebees and butterflies.
Plants instead of stones and metal
Insects love natural gardens. They have little use for concrete, natural stone or pebbles. No matter how small the wild corners in your garden are, wild bees & co. will be grateful for them. You might also consider planting hedges and shrubs instead of a metal fence. It may be a little more work, but it’s much nicer and more insect-friendly.
Chaos instead of order
Good news for untidy gardeners: piles of wood, undergrowth and ponds provide far more habitats for insects than show gardens and neat green spaces. Hedgehogs and lizards also enjoy these retreats.
Regional instead of imported
Buying fruit and vegetables from the region – preferably organically produced – supports natural land use that provides protection and food for our native insects. Why not try old varieties of fruit – from apples to plums. These varieties vary greatly from region to region and therefore promote both biodiversity and culinary diversity.
