The Red Book of invertebrates in Israel

In recent years, data has been accumulated indicating a radical decrease in insect and other arthropod populations around the world, as well as the loss of species from areas in which they were previously abundant. It was found that the loss and fragmentation of habitats, pollution, especially from agricultural sources, invasive species, and climate change, are the key factors causing direct and indirect damage to arthropods worldwide. In Israel, one of the most densely-populated countries in the world, and a country with one of the highest population growth rates, these factors are intensifying rapidly, harming local biodiversity both directly and indirectly. Due to the enormous richness of species and the sensitivity of many species to unique conditions, we can estimate that the number of arthropods that have become extinct in Israel is similar or even higher than the above-mentioned examples. For this reason, and to cover, at least partially, the lack of knowledge on the subject, we are currently promoting work on a Red Book of Invertebrates in Israel. The main goals of the book are: (a) a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the degree of the threat to various taxonomic groups and to individual species as a future baseline for the state of the species and the quality of their habitats; (b) identifying bio-indicators for habitats under threat, as an interface tool for nature reserves and managed sites, and for the promotion of the protection of natural open areas; c) identifying key habitats to be conserved, both inside and outside protected areas. The Red Book of Invertebrates in Israel is compiled by the Entomological Laboratory for Applied Ecology and Hamaarag, in collaboration with Israel’s Nature and Parks Authority, the JNF, and researchers from Israel and abroad. So far, threat assessments for 421 species have been prepared, including day-time butterflies], land snails and slugs, scorpions, ants, and mayflies.