In the vibrant green of the Tambopata Amazon rainforest, humidity envelops everything and wildlife is abundant in every corner. Towering trees, covered in mosses and vines, form a thick canopy through which sunlight filters in golden rays. Fallen leaves create a carpet that crunches under the feet of the few who venture into this atmosphere of mystery, fascination and biodiversity.
Being here sharpens our senses. We listen to the sounds echoing through the leaves: birdsong, the rustling of branches under the weight of reptiles and mammals trying to hide among the vegetation. These sounds take on new layers of complexity as night approaches, and we encounter a less visible but equally vital world: that of insects.
As Edward Wilson mentions in his influential book “The Diversity of Life”: “Insects are the little creatures that move the world. They are the main elements in the balance of nature. Without insects, terrestrial ecosystems would collapse”.
I was born and raised in Lima, and as a biologist, I longed one day to be able to get away from the urban bustle and daily routine to live in a place that would open my eyes to the complexity and beauty of nature. That is how, due to the life circumstances I was looking for, I arrived in Tambopata. This change of scenery not only allowed me to connect deeply with the natural environment, but also gave me the opportunity to develop an investigation with one of the most mysterious and abundant groups; insects.
After reading the preceding paragraphs, you may intuitively sense which group I am referring to and sincerely ask yourself, “Why should I care about insects?” And I don't blame you for this question. Throughout our lives, we have learned to fear them, not to touch them, and to avoid them. It's understandable, since we live in trash-clogged cities, where the word “insect” is often associated with filth and disease. However, in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where pollution and garbage do not yet reach, these small animals play crucial roles in the maintenance of our planet.
Reading this blog may not make you instantly fall in love with insects. But I urge you to try to consider their importance and appreciate them for all they do for the world.
This time working in the forest has led me to develop empathy and admiration for one group in particular: moths. Who knew they were so important, right? As it turns out, they are one of the pillars of biodiversity. Although often overshadowed by their diurnal relatives, the butterflies, moths are an integral part of the rainforest.
During my nights of research in Tambopata at Posada Amazonas Lodge, I have had fascinating encounters with these fascinating insects. I vividly remember that, one night, while I was in the light trap, a huge saturnid moth landed on my shoulder. Its size was impressive, almost like the palm of my hand, and its wings looked like intricately patterned works of art. Moments like this remind me why I fell in love with these insects and why it is so important to protect them.
Saturniid Moth photo by Aracely Yarasca
These insects are commonly associated only with nighttime; however, moths exhibit a surprising variety of behaviors and adaptations, including diurnal activity. Uranias, for example, display bright colors and striking patterns that not only help them camouflage themselves among flowers and leaves, but also act as a warning to predators of their potential toxicity.
Urania moth or green swallowtail - Urania fulgens - Photo by Javi Gonzales.
Similarly, we have the sphinx moths, which, due to their fast flight and diurnal habits, are mistaken for hummingbirds, as they are seen fluttering around feeding on flower nectar.
Clavipes Sphinx diurnal moth - Aellopos clavipes - drinking nectar from a flower, Photo by Martin Reid.
During the night, most moths become even more active and pollinate flowers. However, this nocturnal process is not as simple as you might think; it requires precise timing for these insects.
The noctuid moth Mythimna unipuncta feeding on an apple blossom, Photo by Stephen Robertson, Ph.D.
Some research has shown that flowers open and release their scents at the right time, when their nocturnal visitors are most active and foraging. This is a mechanism to effectively attract pollinators. It has even been shown that some plants have evolved specifically to attract moths with sweet, strong fragrances and colors that are visible under moonlight.
A fascinating example of this synchronization is the relationship between the sphinx moth (Manduca sexta) and the wild tobacco plant (Nicotiana attenuata). The plant opens its flowers at dusk and emits a strong scent that attracts these moths. In turn, the moths have developed a long proboscis that allows them to reach the nectar deep inside the tubular flowers, effecting pollination.
To navigate and survive in the dark, moths have special adaptations to use moonlight and starlight for orientation. In addition, they have an extremely well-developed sense of smell that helps them find mates and food. Once perched on flowers, moths, thanks to their hairy-scaly undersides, transport a large amount of pollen between plants without even realizing it.
With the help of its antennae, this nocturnal tobacco moth (Manduca sexta) has been able to locate wild tobacco flowers by scent and is now enjoying the nectar. © MPI for Chemical Ecology/Danny Kessler
Moths, whether nocturnal or diurnal, play essential roles in pollination, are a crucial source of food for numerous predators, and are excellent bioindicators; that is, their presence, absence or abundance can signal alterations in the environment, whether due to habitat loss, climate change or pollution. Although moths are often overlooked, and we would think that all is well with them, a decline in many species has been reported in recent decades.
A recent study in the UK showed a 33% decline in moth abundance over the last 50 years. Although we do not have such precise data for the Amazon, it is likely that the situation is similar or even more serious. Rising temperatures are altering the life cycles of moths and the plants they pollinate. In some cases, moths emerge before the flowers they normally pollinate are available, resulting in a desynchronization that affects both moths and plants. This is why conservation of the rainforest is not only essential for the moths, but for all living things that depend on this ecosystem.
How can we help? Here are some actions we can take:
By protecting areas of critical biodiversity and reducing destructive human activities, we can ensure that moths and other rainforest inhabitants continue to thrive. Moths are not only nocturnal guardians of the ecosystem, but also a reminder of the interconnectedness and fragility of life on our planet. So the next time you see a moth fluttering around a light, remember their importance and the incredible world they represent.
And finally, to dispel a common myth: no, adult moths will not eat your clothes. Those are just the larvae of a couple of specific species. The vast majority of moths are harmless and beneficial to our environment.
