Introduction

Abstract

Growing evidence of the deleterious impacts of climate change on the agricultural sector and human health requires research for understanding the underlying mechanisms of damage. Insects being ectothermic organisms are vulnerable to temperature changes, precipitation, and carbon dioxide concentrations, which may alter their phenology. Seasonal perturbations also affect plant phenology. Consequently, there is a loss of synchrony among them. Though the effect varies between species, the overall impact is a decline in the pollinator population and a rise of pest infestations of plants. Such mismatches between insect pests and their natural enemies can render biological control ineffective. Since the environmental requirements of insect ecotypes vary across the globe, climatic alterations have triggered mass migrations resulting in transmission of parasites and diseases of both plants (via pests and pollinators) and animals (via vectors) across continental barriers. Thus, climate change can affect both the beneficial and harmful insects that may threaten the future food security and biodiversity.