Anthropogenic climate change is the defining environmental challenge of this century, posing an existential threat not only to humans but also to the vast array of plants and animals that inhabit our planet. Among these, insects reign as the largest and most diverse group of organisms, playing critical roles in nutrient cycling, pollination, seed dispersal, and population control of other species. Additionally, they serve as a vital food source for various taxa and act as vectors for numerous human diseases.
This comprehensive but accessible text delves into the intricate world of these remarkable creatures, with a focus extending beyond economically or medically significant species to encompass non-model organisms. In so doing, it uncovers valuable insights into the implications posed by climate change on global insect populations. The book reviews the conceptual approaches and most significant advances in our current understanding of insect physiology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and conservation within the ongoing and rapidly developing context of global anthropogenic climate change. In addition to presenting historical information about climate change effects on insects, it synthesizes the available knowledge concerning the impact of climate change on insect populations, communities, and ecosystem processes. Furthermore, it identifies the most relevant topics and promising methodological approaches for further research in this crucial field.
Effects of Climate Change on Insects has been written to engage a diverse audience, catering to the curiosity of both students and researchers seeking knowledge on the critical subject of insect responses to climate change. As the field continues to grow in importance, it will be an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the intricate interplay between these fascinating creatures and our ever-changing world.
Daniel González-Tokman, Researcher, Instituto de Ecología A.C., Mexico, Wesley Dáttilo, Researcher, Instituto de Ecología A.C., Mexico
Daniel González-Tokman received his doctoral degree in Biological Sciences in 2012 from National Autonomous University of Mexico. Currently he is a researcher at Instituto de Ecología A.C., Mexico and the National Council for Science and Technology. He has authored 50 publications in the fields of insect physiology, behavior, ecology, toxicology, evolution and conservation. He co-edited the OUP book
Insect Behavior: From Mechanisms to Ecological and Evolutionary Consequences (2018) with Alex Córdoba-Aguilar and Isaac González-Santoyo.
Wesley Dáttilo received his doctoral degree in Neuroethology in 2015 from Universidad Veracruzana in Mexico. Currently he is a full-time researcher at Instituto de Ecología A.C., Mexico. The main focus of his research over the last decade has been to understand how species interactions involving mainly insects vary through space-time, and how they are influenced by environmental perturbations. He has written and co-authored over 100 publications based on his research.
