Ecological Significance of Insect–Animal Networks in Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems: A Review
N. Keerthika *
Division of Entomology, ICAR - Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110012, India.
B. S. Ravishankar
Department of Zoology, BLDEA`s, Commerce, B.H.S Arts and T.G.P Science College, Jamkhandi-587301, Karnataka, India.
B. Sai krishna Reddy
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agricultural Sciences, Malla Reddy University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
Dhara Suthar
Agriculture, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
Anup Kumar Doley
Department of Zoology, Majuli College, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh, Assam, India.
Manisha Kondiram Balsane
Department of Zoology, Sahakar Maharshi Bhausaheb Santuji Thorat Arts Commerce and Science College, Sangamner, Maharashtra, India.
B. Sujatha
Department of Zoology, KVR Government College for Women (A), Cluster University, KURNOOL, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Dayanand Sai Painkra
Department of Forestry, Govt Kaktiya P.G. College Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, Pin Code 494001, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Insect–animal networks are fundamental to ecological systems, supporting biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and the provision of key ecosystem services in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. These networks include a wide array of interactions trophic, mutualistic, and antagonistic that together shape population dynamics, energy transfer, and nutrient cycling. As the most diverse group of organisms, insects occupy central roles within these networks, functioning as pollinators, herbivores, predators, parasitoids, and decomposers. Their interactions with vertebrates and other invertebrates form complex, multi-level connections that strengthen ecosystem stability and resilience. Current understanding highlights the structure and ecological importance of these networks, focusing on their diversity, functional roles, and contributions to services such as pollination, biological pest control, and decomposition. Cross-ecosystem linkages are particularly significant, especially between aquatic and terrestrial systems, where insects act as key agents of energy and nutrient exchange. Concepts from network theory Such as connectance, nestedness, and modularity—help explain how patterns of interaction influence ecosystem robustness. These networks are increasingly threatened by human-driven pressures, including habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and invasive species. Such disturbances disrupt interactions, contribute to insect declines, and trigger cascading effects across ecosystems. Effective conservation and management strategies must therefore integrate species interactions, habitat restoration, and ecosystem-based approaches to preserve network integrity. Despite growing knowledge, important gaps remain, underscoring the need for interdisciplinary research, advanced analytical methods, and emerging technologies to better understand these complex systems. Safeguarding insect–animal networks is essential for maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem productivity, and resilience in a rapidly changing world.
Keywords: Ecological networks, insect diversity, trophic interactions, ecosystem services, biodiversity conservation, network stability, aquatic–terrestrial linkages