By- Jennifer
A new study published in the journal Ecology has uncovered significant changes in moth behavior over the past century, highlighting the impact of environmental and climate shifts on insect populations.
Led by Emma Foster, a former undergraduate at Binghamton University, the research reveals that moths in Ithaca, New York, are now flying an average of more than two weeks later in the year compared to historical records. Foster is currently pursuing a doctorate at the University of Michigan.
Co-author Eliza Grames, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences, explained that these shifts are likely driven by warmer temperatures and longer growing seasons, allowing moths to produce additional generations annually—a phenomenon known as increased voltinism.
Rediscovering Historical Data
The study draws on rare datasets from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, originally collected at Cornell University agricultural research stations. These historical records were rediscovered and digitized, then compared with modern observations from the citizen-science app iNaturalist and ongoing field data collection.
Researchers analyzed 78 moth species, identifying notable changes in flight timing and seasonal activity patterns.
Disappearing Species Raise Concerns
The study also identified 13 moth species that have not been observed in the Ithaca region for over a decade. While one species was intentionally eradicated due to its status as a crop pest, others appear to have shifted their range northward or to higher elevations—potential indicators of climate change.
“These species may not be entirely gone, but they could now be rare or have relocated,” said Grames, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and conservation efforts.
A Treasure Trove of Untapped Data
The research underscores the importance of preserving and digitizing historical ecological data. Many valuable datasets remain hidden in archives, personal collections, or unpublished records, potentially holding critical insights into long-term environmental changes.
“There’s a wealth of untapped information that could help us better understand biodiversity shifts over time,” Grames noted. “Digitizing these records is essential for advancing conservation science.”
Looking Ahead
By combining historical records with modern technology, the study demonstrates how long-term datasets can provide powerful insights into ecological change. The findings highlight the urgent need for continued research, data preservation, and citizen-science participation to better track and respond to environmental transformations.
