The earth, its ecosystems, and its creatures are all deeply connected. Thus, the existence of many species depends on the survival of others, and don’t think human beings are an exception.
1. Ants
Over 12,000 species of ants have been scientifically identified and they are abundant in most ecosystems.
Ants aid in decomposition and turn up more soil than earthworms! When ants dig tunnels, they aerate the soil and recycle nutrients. This activity is ecologically crucial in maintaining healthy soil for plant (food) growth. Ants even help reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and the need for irrigation. They also helps in picking of pests.
Wow, ants sure have a lot of ecological roles! What’s more? They help cleaning up rainforests and keep ecosystems in balance. So, the next time you encounter an ant, perhaps think twice about using your shoe as a squashing device.
2. Termites
Though they destroy our homes and are responsible for billions of dollars needed for annual repairs, termites are far more beneficial than harmful to humans. Though sometimes called “white ants,” termites and ants are different species, but they are similarly important. A termite’s diet is based upon roots, wood, bark, and stems. How should they know that your house is off limit?
3. Bats
Though they are often portrayed as creepy flighty creatures in Hollywood films (you can watch this video to see how cute bats can be), bats are exceptionally important to our ecosystem. And don’t worry about vampires. Out of over 1,200 species of bats, only three are blood-sucking vampires and bats won’t harm humans unless they are threatened. They do, however, help humans by going about their normal business.
4. Frogs
You may have never given much attention to these slimy species, but frogs are far more important to humans than being used for high school dissection experiments. Frogs act as bio-indicators, which means they indicate the health of their ecosystems. How? Frog skin is very porous and permeable, allowing substances present in the environment to be absorbed within their fatty tissues.
5. Birds
Birds perform a broad variety of ecological roles, including forest decomposition, insect pest control, nutrient recycling, bio-indication of ecosystem health, plant pollination, and seed dispersal. Some ground-dwelling birds even help aerate and turn up soil with their claws. Though ant, termite, bat, and frog species might be the masters of their trades, birds certainly seem like the jack of them all!
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