[ad_1]
According to a new British study, high levels of pollution in many major cities around the world have negative effects on plants and insects.
The absorption of reactive atmospheric nitrogen "carried out at the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom was published in the journal & # 39; Nature Communications & # 39;
It revealed that plants exposed to high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) – similar to levels seen in large urban centers – are better able to defend against herbivorous insects.
According to research, NO2 has a significant impact on plants and insects. Insects are essential for food production and also guarantee the long-term survival of wildflowers, shrubs and trees.
Plants exposed to increased pollution produce more defensive chemicals in their leaves, says research conducted by Dr. Stuart Campbell of the university. Department of Animal and Plant Sciences.
"The results of the study show that the insects feeding on these leaves grow poorly, suggesting that high levels of air pollution could have negative effects in cascading communities of herbivorous creatures, "says the study. According to research, insects play a crucial role in food production and also ensure the long-term survival of wildflowers, shrubs and trees.
themselves as food for wild birds, reptiles, mammals and other insects. Insects are also extremely important for the decomposition of decaying organic matter and the maintenance of healthy soils "Campbell, who is also part of the P3 Center – a center of excellence in translational plant science at the University of Toronto. University
Scientists warn of mbadive decline in number of insects, which should be extremely alarming for anyone who values the natural world.
Research suggests that urban vegetation plays a modest role in the absorption of NO 2.
Further work is needed as many factors may affect the effect of urban plants on air quality, including: herbivory, but research suggests that plant protection insects to a number of different human threats, which may include air pollution ".
(With the contribution of organisms.)
Source link
