Role of Invertebrate Diversity with Special Reference to Insects in Agro- biodiversity and Ecological Services – Indian Efforts

Abstract

Invertebrates occupy larger proportion in the animal species diversity in almost all habitats and are important components of all ecosystems. The importance of the ecological role played by these invertebrates are not given due consideration and the diversity is under-sampled and understudied. Insects belonging to phylum Arthropoda form a major component that renders several ecological functions and ecosystem services. In this chapter, the importance of the insect services are highlighted and the role of ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru in documentation of the insect diversity, its utilization and conservation is emphasized, which are in line with the mandate of the Bureau and Delhi declaration on Agrobiodiversity management.