Insect ecology studies the complex interactions between insects and their environment, primarily through chemical signals called semiochemicals, which mediate communication both within and between species. These incredibly diverse creatures are vital for global biodiversity and perform indispensable ecological roles, ranging from nutrient recycling by breaking down dead organic matter to forming a critical part of the food chain for many animals.
Insects maintain community structure by impacting plants through crucial processes like pollination and seed dispersal, and influencing animals via predation, parasitism, and disease transmission. However, from an anthropocentric view, they also compete with humans for food and can transmit pathogens. As crucial decomposers, or saprophages, insects like maggots and dung beetles rapidly break down dead plants, carrion, and animal waste, thereby enriching soil by creating humus and releasing essential nutrients for plant growth.