Date of Graduation

Spring 5-20-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Thesis Chair

Dr. Jennifer N. Phillips

Abstract

Pollinators provide a key ecological function in terrestrial ecosystems, yet in recent years, they have encountered unprecedented declines, likely due to anthropogenic change. Light and noise pollution, which can interfere with the visual and auditory systems of animals that regulate daily behaviors, are important factors to consider when communities are encroached by human development. While many researchers have looked at how vertebrate species behaviorally react to human caused habitat degradation and sensory pollution, little is known about how invertebrates, including arthropod pollinators, are affected, and whether there is a negative cascading effect on the plants that they pollinate. This research investigates threats to arthropod biodiversity and pollination services from light pollution and noise pollution with field observations and experiments. This research is unique and is an important first step to understanding why arthropods and arthropod pollinators are in decline and will inform land managers in important conservation action.

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