ISTANBUL

Rising temperatures driven by climate change are causing insect populations to surge across Türkiye, with significant implications for ecosystems, agriculture and public health, according to a Turkish expert. 

"Warmer climates increase insects' metabolic rates, allowing them to reproduce faster," Hamit Ayberk, an expert in forest entomology at Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa, told Anadolu.

"For instance, mosquitoes breed more quickly in warm environments and reach larger populations. Climate change in Türkiye is having significant effects on insects and other ecosystems," he added.

Ayberk noted that the increase in the insect population is particularly evident in major cities where the "urban heat island" effect exacerbates the problem.

Buildings, roads and other structures absorb solar energy, leading to higher temperatures than in rural areas, he said, warning that it could have severe ecological and public health consequences.

Ayberk pointed out that climate change is also causing an uptick in insect species harmful to agriculture.

"The number of insect species that damage agricultural products is rising in Türkiye. This situation forces farmers to use more pesticides, which in turn reduces agricultural productivity," he said.

Public health is also at risk due to the increased presence of disease-carrying insects like mosquitoes, according to the expert.

"With rising temperatures, the populations of insects that transmit diseases, such as mosquitoes, may increase and spread to new regions, posing serious public health issues," he said.

Ayberk stressed the importance of preserving green spaces to support natural predators of insects, such as birds and bats.

That, along with effective waste management and drainage systems, could help mitigate the effect of rising insect populations, he noted.

To address the challenges, Ayberk emphasized the need for public education.

"People should be informed about simple hygiene measures they can take at home and in their surroundings," he said

Raising awareness through educational programs in schools could also play a critical role in controlling insect populations, he added.  

*Writing by Gizem Nisa Cebi​​​​​​​