Asexual Pests Threaten Antarctic Banks

Asexual Pests Threaten Antarctic Banks

Antarctic moss is facing impending threats from the infestation of an all-female species of midges (Eretmoptera murphyi). The pest can lay up to 40 to 50 eggs at one time, with a fast-paced reproduction process.

The excrement from the bug is believed to bring about a spike in the natural nitrogen levels of the moss beds in Antarctica, which could upset existing ecosystems.

Antarctica is a place naturally deprived of nutrients due to its harsh cold climate, the arrival of the alien insects is an atypical occurrence.  

Scientists believe that global warming may be a huge contributing factor to the attraction of additional foreign invasion species towards the polar continent.

https://www.sciencenews.org/article/invasive-asexual-midges-may-upset-antarctica-moss-banks?tgt=nr