Practice Tests
IELTS Reading (AC) Task 1 #190

A. A growing body of scientific evidence is pointing to a significant and worrying decline in insect populations around the world. While insects are often overlooked or considered pests, they are a cornerstone of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems, playing a vital role in processes that are essential for environmental health and human well-being. This widespread decline, sometimes referred to as the "insect apocalypse," has profound implications for the stability of our planet''s ecosystems.

B. Insects perform a multitude of critical functions. They are the primary pollinators for the vast majority of the world''s flowering plants, including about 75% of our food crops. Without insects like bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, agricultural systems would be severely compromised. They are also essential decomposers, breaking down dead organic matter and recycling nutrients back into the soil. Furthermore, insects form a crucial part of the food web, providing a vital food source for countless species of birds, bats, fish, and mammals.

C. The drivers of this decline are complex and multifaceted, but they are largely linked to human activities. The primary cause is habitat loss and fragmentation due to agriculture and urbanisation. The intensive use of pesticides, particularly insecticides, in modern farming is another major factor, as these chemicals can be lethal to both pest and beneficial insects. Other significant threats include pollution, the spread of invasive species, and climate change, which can disrupt insect life cycles and ranges.

D. Addressing the insect decline requires a concerted effort to change our land management practices. This includes creating more diverse and insect-friendly habitats, both in agricultural landscapes and in urban areas, through measures like planting wildflower strips and reducing mowing. A significant reduction in pesticide use and a shift towards more sustainable farming methods, such as organic agriculture and integrated pest management, are also crucial. Protecting these small but mighty creatures is essential for safeguarding the health of our planet.