Mass Die-off of Ladybugs in Ukraine: Causes and Consequences
A significant die-off of seven-spotted ladybugs (Coccinella septempunctata) has been recorded along the shores of the Black Sea and the Tuzla lagoons. It is estimated that during a two-week migration, hundreds of millions of ladybugs perished. This was reported by Ivan Rusev, a researcher at the National Nature Park "Tuzla Lagoons" and a doctor of biological sciences.
Possible reasons for this ecological phenomenon
Ecologist Ivan Rusev proposed two main theories that might explain this occurrence. The first likely cause is increased humidity in spring, which led to a rapid increase in aphid populations. In response, there was a mass reproduction of ladybugs that feed on these pests.
The second reason for the invasion and subsequent death of the insects is attributed to the simultaneous harvesting of crops. According to him, a large amount of grain in the Ukrainian Black Sea region was harvested at once, which sharply deprived ladybugs of their food source.
Ivan Rusev emphasized the importance of preserving undisturbed natural areas. He believes that it is on such sites that insects can redistribute and maintain the necessary balance in ecosystems, helping to prevent similar mass phenomena in the future.
