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Deans AR, Porturas L. Diversity and complexity of arthropod references in haiku. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298865. [PMID: 38568873 PMCID: PMC10990216 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Haiku are short poems, each composed of about 10 words, that typically describe moments in nature. People have written haiku since at least the 17th century, and the medium continues to be popular with poets, amateurs, educators, and students. Collectively, these poems represent an opportunity to understand which aspects of nature-e.g., which taxa and biological traits-resonate with humans and whether there are temporal trends in their representation or the emotions associated with these moments. We tested this potential using a mix of linguistic and biological methods, in analyses of nearly 4,000 haiku that reference arthropods. We documented the taxa and the life history traits represented in these poems and how they changed over time. We also analyzed the poems for emotion and tone. Our results reveal a mix of predictable trends and compelling surprises, each of which stand to potentially inform engagement strategies. At least 99 families of arthropods, in 28 orders, are represented in these haiku. The eight most commonly referenced taxa, from highest to lowest number of references, include: Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, Araneae, Orthoptera, Hemiptera, and Odonata. Several common, conspicuous orders were never referenced, including Trichoptera, Plecoptera, and Megaloptera. The most commonly referenced traits relate to ecology (especially habitat, phenology, time of day), behavior (especially sound production), phenotype (especially color), and locomotion (especially flight). The least common traits in haiku relate to arthropod reproduction and physiology. Our analyses revealed few obvious temporal trends in the representations of taxa, biological traits, or emotion and tone. The broader implications of these results and possible future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R. Deans
- Frost Entomological Museum, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Laura Porturas
- Frost Entomological Museum, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Katumo DM, Liang H, Ochola AC, Lv M, Wang QF, Yang CF. Pollinator diversity benefits natural and agricultural ecosystems, environmental health, and human welfare. PLANT DIVERSITY 2022; 44:429-435. [PMID: 36187551 PMCID: PMC9512639 DOI: 10.1016/j.pld.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Biodiversity loss during the Anthropocene is a serious ecological challenge. Pollinators are important vectors that provide multiple essential ecosystem services but are declining rapidly in this changing world. However, several studies have argued that a high abundance of managed bee pollinators, such as honeybees (Apis mellifera), may be sufficient to provide pollination services for crop productivity, and sociological studies indicate that the majority of farmers worldwide do not recognize the contribution of wild pollinator diversity to agricultural yield. Here, we review the importance of pollinator diversity in natural and agricultural ecosystems that may be thwarted by the increase in abundance of managed pollinators such as honeybees. We also emphasize the additional roles diverse pollinator communities play in environmental safety, culture, and aesthetics. Research indicates that in natural ecosystems, pollinator diversity enhances pollination during environmental and climatic perturbations, thus alleviating pollen limitation. In agricultural ecosystems, pollinator diversity increases the quality and quantity of crop yield. Furthermore, studies indicate that many pollinator groups are useful in monitoring environmental pollution, aid in pest and disease control, and provide cultural and aesthetic value. During the uncertainties that may accompany rapid environmental changes in the Anthropocene, the conservation of pollinator diversity must expand beyond bee conservation. Similarly, the value of pollinator diversity maintenance extends beyond the provision of pollination services. Accordingly, conservation of pollinator diversity requires an interdisciplinary approach with contributions from environmentalists, taxonomists, and social scientists, including artists, who can shape opinions and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mutavi Katumo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Center of Conservation Biology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Huan Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- Center of Conservation Biology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Anne Christine Ochola
- CAS Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Center of Conservation Biology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Min Lv
- CAS Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Center of Conservation Biology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Qing-Feng Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- Center of Conservation Biology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Chun-Feng Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
- Center of Conservation Biology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
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van Huis A. Cultural significance of locusts, grasshoppers, and crickets in sub-Saharan Africa. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2022; 18:24. [PMID: 35346258 PMCID: PMC8962220 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-022-00524-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In sub-Saharan Africa, there is a wealth of information about insects which is often only orally available. The purpose of the study was to remedy this shortcoming and make an overview of how orthopteran species are utilised, perceived and experienced in daily life across sub-Saharan Africa. METHOD Ethno-entomological information on Orthoptera in sub-Saharan Africa was collected by (1) interviews with more than 300 people from about 120 ethnic groups in 27 countries in the region; (2) library studies in Africa, London, Paris and Leiden; and (3) using web search engines. RESULTS More than 126 species of crickets, grasshoppers, and locusts have been identified as edible in sub-Saharan Africa. Some toxic species, such as Zonocerus spp., are eaten by some groups who use processing and detoxifying techniques. The katydid Ruspolia differens is very popular as food in central and eastern Africa and is captured by indigenous and commercial methods. Vernacular names refer to their morphology, behaviour, characteristics or the beliefs associated with the insect. The aposematic pyrgomorphid species, such as Zonocerus spp., are often used as medicine. Children play with grasshoppers, by for instance herding them like cattle, and they consider cricket-hunting for food as a game. The doctrine of signatures probably plays a role, as crickets, because of their chirping, are used to improve the sound of a music instrument, or as medicine to treat earache. Locust plagues are considered a punishment which requires repentance, but also an opportunity to acquire food. Proverbs and stories relate to using the orthopterans as food or to the underground lives of the crickets. Possible explanations are given as to why so many practices, beliefs and stories about orthopterans are so widespread in sub-Saharan Africa. The relevance of recording such ethno-entomological practices is discussed. CONCLUSION Grasshoppers, locusts and crickets, although they may be agricultural pests, are very popular as food. They are also used in medicine, and as toys, and they play a role in religion, art and literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnold van Huis
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University and Research, P.O. Box 16, 6700 AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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Bomolo O, Niassy S, Tanga CM, Chocha A, Tartibu L, Shutcha MN, Longanza B, Ekesi S, Bugeme DM. The value chain of the edible caterpillar Elaphrodes lactea Gaede (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae) in the Miombo forest of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2019; 15:39. [PMID: 31412897 PMCID: PMC6693223 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-019-0319-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elaphrodes lactea Gaede is a highly praised edible lepidopteran insect in the Miombo forest in the DRC. Both caterpillars and pupae of this species are consumed. Following recent declines in the Miombo forest, it is crucial to investigate the rate of consumption, biological, and exploitation cycles, as well as the trade and profitability of E. lactea to develop a sustainable program for its use. METHODS We, therefore, embarked on a survey in 10 sites located in Lubumbashi between 2011 and 2015. Information on E. lactea supply chain and harvesting period was also documented as well as the mode of selling, pricing, and other determinants of the business. Data were analyzed using R2.15.0 software and means were compared using the Fisher LSD test. RESULTS The study revealed that E. lactea is the most preferred caterpillar and several indicators guide its exploitation. Caterpillars are available between March and April, and pupation starts in May. Harvesting starts within the household surroundings before reaching the bush, and several harvesting techniques are used. The indirect mode of trade of E. lactea is the most commonly used, with the average price/kg varying between USD2.32 (during in-season = production period for caterpillars) and USD5.24 (during dry season = off-season, mainly pupae). During the peak season of caterpillar production, the harvester's average income per day varies between USD1.6 and USD3.0 whereas it varies between USD2.2 and USD5.2 during the pupal season. Anthropogenic activities, coupled with climatic factors, constitute the main drivers affecting the availability of E. lactea. CONCLUSIONS The study, therefore, calls on a concerted action from all stakeholders to increase awareness and the development of innovative measures for sustainable exploitation of this insect while ensuring rehabilitation of the forest through community participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Bomolo
- Université de Lubumbashi (UNILU), Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Université Nouveaux Horizons (UNH), Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Saliou Niassy
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE)-African Insect Science for Food and Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Chrysantus M. Tanga
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE)-African Insect Science for Food and Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Auguste Chocha
- Université de Lubumbashi (UNILU), Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Laetitia Tartibu
- University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, Cnr Joe Slovo Drive and Beit St, Doornfontein, Johannesburg, Gauteng 2001 South Africa
| | - Mylor N. Shutcha
- Université de Lubumbashi (UNILU), Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Baboy Longanza
- Université de Lubumbashi (UNILU), Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Sunday Ekesi
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE)-African Insect Science for Food and Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David M. Bugeme
- Université de Lubumbashi (UNILU), Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
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