List of endangered insects facts for kids

Insects are tiny but mighty creatures that play a huge role in our world! They help plants grow, break down waste, and are food for many other animals. But sadly, many insect species are in danger of disappearing forever.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global organization that keeps track of animals and plants facing extinction. In July 2017, the IUCN reported that 343 different kinds of insects were considered endangered. This means they are at a very high risk of vanishing from our planet. Another 21 insect subspecies were also listed as endangered.

Endangered (EN) species are considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction.

When a species is "endangered," it means its population has shrunk dramatically, or its habitat is severely threatened. There are also "critically endangered" species, which are in even greater danger. In total, 538 insect species were either endangered or critically endangered at that time.

Sometimes, scientists don't have enough information to decide if a species is endangered. These are called "data deficient" species. About 1702 insect species (28% of those studied) fell into this category. Even though we don't know their exact status, these species often live in small areas or have small populations, making them likely to be at risk. It's important to pay attention to them too, so we can learn more and help protect them.

This article highlights some of the amazing insect species that need our help.

Blattodea: Cockroaches

Cockroaches are an ancient group of insects. While some are pests, many live in the wild and play important roles in their ecosystems. Sadly, some species are now endangered.

Orthoptera: Grasshoppers, Crickets, and Katydids

This order includes many familiar jumping insects. They are known for their powerful legs and the unique sounds some species make. Many Orthoptera species are facing threats to their survival.

Lentulids

These are a type of grasshopper. Some, like the slender restio grasshopper, are found in specific habitats.

Tetrigids

Tetrigids are often called pygmy grasshoppers or groundhoppers. They are usually small and blend in well with their surroundings.

Euschmidtiids

These are a family of monkey grasshoppers. They are often found in specific regions of Africa.

Mogoplistids

Mogoplistids are a type of cricket, often covered in scales. They are usually found in warm climates.

Pamphagids

Pamphagids are large, often flightless grasshoppers. They are sometimes called "stone grasshoppers" because of their tough appearance.

Crickets

Crickets are well-known for their chirping sounds. Many species are important parts of food webs. Species

Subspecies

• Phaloria insularis insularis

Acridids

This family includes many common grasshoppers, often found in open grasslands. Some are known for their long-distance migrations.

Tettigoniids

Tettigoniids are also known as bush-crickets or katydids. Many are masters of camouflage, blending in with leaves and branches.

Phaneropterids

These are another group of bush-crickets, often with broad, leaf-like wings. Species

Subspecies

• Isophya longicaudata longicaudata

Hymenoptera: Bees, Wasps, and Ants

Hymenoptera is a diverse order that includes bees, wasps, and ants. Many of these insects are vital pollinators, helping plants reproduce and grow our food. Others are important predators or decomposers.

Lepidoptera: Moths and Butterflies

Moths and butterflies are known for their beautiful wings and their role as pollinators. Their life cycle, from caterpillar to adult, is a fascinating transformation. Many species are now endangered due to habitat loss and other threats.

Swallowtail Butterflies

Swallowtails are large, colorful butterflies, often with "tails" on their hindwings.

Lycaenids

Lycaenids are often called "blues," "coppers," or "hairstreaks." They are usually small and brightly colored.

Nymphalids

Nymphalids, or brush-footed butterflies, are a very large family. They include many well-known butterflies like monarchs and admirals.

Other Moths and Butterflies

This group includes other endangered moths and butterflies.

Coleoptera: Beetles

Beetles are the largest order of insects, with hard wing covers that protect their delicate flying wings. They live in almost every habitat on Earth.

Dytiscids

These are diving beetles, often found in freshwater habitats. They are skilled swimmers and predators.

Stag Beetles

Stag beetles are known for the large, antler-like mandibles of the males. They are often found in forests.

Geotrupids

Geotrupids are earth-boring dung beetles. They play a crucial role in recycling nutrients in the soil.

Longhorn Beetles

Longhorn beetles are recognized by their very long antennae. Many species bore into wood, helping to decompose dead trees.

Scarabaeids

This large family includes dung beetles, chafers, and rhinoceros beetles. Many are important for soil health.

Other Beetle Species

Many other types of beetles are also endangered.

Odonata: Dragonflies and Damselflies

Dragonflies and damselflies are beautiful insects often found near water. They are important predators, helping to control mosquito populations. Their aquatic larval stage is a key part of freshwater ecosystems.

Platystictids

These are a family of damselflies, often found in tropical forests.

Platycnemidids

Also known as featherlegs or threadtails, these damselflies have slender bodies. Species

Subspecies

Megapodagrionids

This family includes broad-winged damselflies, often found in shaded forest areas.

Gomphids

Gomphids are clubtail dragonflies, often with a club-shaped abdomen. They are usually found near rivers and streams. Species

Subspecies

Calopterygids

Calopterygids are broad-winged damselflies, often called demoiselles. They are known for their graceful flight. Species

Subspecies

• Matrona basilaris japonica

Coenagrionids

This is a large family of narrow-winged damselflies, often brightly colored. Species

Subspecies

• Pseudagrion torridum hulae

Aeshnids

Aeshnids are large, fast-flying dragonflies, often called hawkers or darners. They have excellent eyesight. Species

Subspecies

Libellulids

Libellulids are skimmer dragonflies, a very common and widespread family. Species

Subspecies

Other Dragonflies and Damselflies

This section lists other endangered species from the Odonata order. Species

Subspecies

Other Endangered Insect Species

Many other types of insects, from various orders, are also facing the risk of extinction.

See also

• Lists of IUCN Red List endangered species
• List of least concern insects
• List of near threatened insects
• List of vulnerable insects
• List of critically endangered insects
• List of recently extinct insects
• List of data deficient insects