The Reasons for Insect Conservation

Appreciating the significance of insects is critical in garnering support for conservation. The major reasons for this significance are summarised in this chapter in the contexts of philosophy, culture, economy, and ecology, collectively displaying a wide range of values. The pragmatic aspects of ‘economic value’ include aspects of ecotourism and trade that increasingly include insect-related activities, and both entomotherapy and entomophagy continue to diversify. The roles of insects as ‘conservation tools’ (such as indicators of environmental health) in evaluating ecosystem conditions and change are increasingly significant, and embed insects firmly into wider conservation practice.