A transdisciplinary research agenda for understanding insect responses to ecological light pollution informed by evolutionary trap theory

Evolutionary traps are phenomena in which rapid environmental change causes environmental cues that historically guided adaptive behavioral or life-history decisions to become poor predictors of the consequences of such decisions for an organism's fitness. Evolutionary trap theory offers an ideal framework for understanding and mitigating the effects of ecological light pollution (ELP) on insects. We emphasize the utility of an evolutionary trap perspective in demonstrating the importance of an integrated understanding of the sensory, behavioral, evolutionary, and demographic mechanisms underlying insect responses to ELP. We also highlight neglected areas of research where greater focus can help enhance understanding of how ELP affects the persistence, evolutionary trajectory, and population dynamics of insects across space and time.

Automated summary

Evolutionary traps occur when rapid environmental changes lead to poor predictions of fitness consequences for organisms. Understanding and mitigating the impact of ecological light pollution on insects can be achieved through evolutionary trap theory. Sensory, behavioral, evolutionary, and demographic mechanisms are crucial for insect responses to light pollution, with neglected areas in research needing more focus for better understanding of its effects.