LIGHT POLLUTION AND ITS EFFECTS ON NOCTURNAL INSECT NAVIGATION AND REPRODUCTION

Abstract

An increasing number of individuals are coming to understand that artificial light at night (ALAN) is detrimental to the environment, yet there has been insufficient work conducted on the direct impact it has on the insects at night behaviour and reproduction.  The purpose of the research is the determination of the impact of various forms and powers of artificial lighting on the orientation capacities of the important nocturnal insect species during the flight and reproduction. The combination of the mixed-method experimental framework was applied in cities and suburbs and rural regions.  To study the impacts of light pollution on the insects, we measured the light pollution and its effects radiometrically and spectrally and infrared videography, radar surveillance, and reproduction levels such as the mating frequency and egg laying.  Behavioural disorientation was measured by degree of deviation of the behavioural orientation.  We used statistical projections in relating the brightness levels to biological outcomes. We further employed convergent design in which we brought together qualitative data at entomologist level, and the field ecologists level. The insects exposed to high-intensity cool-white light had a 37 percent likelihood of getting lost compared to insects exposed to naturally dark or amber-lit space and the likelihood of mating was 42 percent lower in insects exposed to high-intensity cool-white light compared to insects in the naturally dark or amber-lit space.  Egg-laying and larval emergence was also significantly reduced in plots with light pollution.  Regression models indicated that the relationship between light intensity and reproductive production was adverse and high. The interviews of experts, instead, were dedicated to long-term environmental problems, including the decline of pollinators and trophic imbalances. Light pollution extremely complicates the navigational process of nocturnal insects and prevents them to reproduce, which is more dangerous to the ecosystem health.  The findings advocate transforming the design and lighting patterns of cities to source less damage to the environment but satisfying the needs of people who require light.