APRIL 2016 • NEBRASKAland 29
Hunters abound even in the insect
world. This spotted lady-beetle
(Coleomegilla maculata) is beautiful,
but also helps keep other smaller
insect numbers in check.
Life at this small scale has
developed a plethora of novel ways
by which it can grow. Metamorphosis
is one of the most drastic changes
any life form on this planet can go
through and is what will eventually
allow this caterpillar (Hypena sp.) to
sprout wings and fly.
A Place for Everything
I've often heard people complain of the presence
of insects, spiders, reptiles, and other small
animals, questioning their mere existence and
usefulness to the world. While there are any
number of unique roles that these organisms play,
the vast majority of them serve as an excellent
source of food and are the very basis of a giant
web of life. This miniature world is at the forefront
of supplying energy to the world at our level.
Many of these animals and plants are considered
a nuisance, but we would be lost without them in
some capacity, so we might as well enjoy what we
can about them and marvel at their uniqueness.
Another important benefit frequently overlooked
is that the species that make up this microcosm
are known as indicator species. They are at the
forefront of change in an environment and their
decline is often our first sign of any negative impact
that is occurring. Because they are so small and
intimately linked with the soil and water, they are
highly susceptible to changes, whether natural
or human caused. Frogs, for example, have been
shown to be sensitive to chemical pollution in
waterways. The chemical atrazine that runs off of
crops and into waterways can even change a male
frog into a female. This is just one of the many
instances where small species that are easy to
overlook may end up sending us critical warnings
while we can still resolve the problems.
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