What percentage of all insects is considered to be pests?

A vast majority of insects play beneficial roles in our ecosystems, such as pollination, decomposition, and serving as a food source for other wildlife. In fact, it is estimated that only about 1% of all insect species are considered pests, which are those that cause significant damage to crops, structures, or human health.

This low percentage highlights the diversity and importance of insects in the environment, with the vast majority contributing positively rather than negatively. The pervasive perception of insects being pests is often overshadowed by their contributions to ecological balance, and understanding that only a small fraction is troublesome helps in developing effective pest management strategies whilst appreciating the roles that other insects play.