As autumn comes, a debate is brewing on social media platforms: to rake or not to rake? The tradition of clearing fallen leaves from our lawns is being reconsidered, thanks to insights from entomologists like Paul Marek at Virginia Tech. While the act of raking may contribute to a well-manicured lawn, leaving the leaves undisturbed can play a crucial role in supporting the intricate ecosystems beneath our feet.

Marek, a dedicated entomologist based in Blacksburg, emphasizes the importance of the unseen world beneath the ground. His research sheds light on the vital role that small bugs, particularly millipedes, play in breaking down leaves and aiding in the decomposition process. Marek affectionately refers to these creatures as the “little garbage men of the forest floor,” highlighting their essential role in maintaining the delicate balance of nature.

At Virginia Tech, Marek and his team are digitally archiving a vast collection of 400,000 insect specimens. Some of these specimens, collected over a century ago, serve as a historical record of insect populations that have since vanished due to deforestation. Simultaneously, discoveries are continually being made, exemplified by a recently identified blind millipede found in a developed area near Los Angeles. This discovery underscores the resilience and adaptability of these ancient creatures in the face of habitat loss.

Derek Hennen, a Virginia Tech graduate who studied under Marek, continues the legacy of millipede and centipede research. Hennen’s recent exploration atop Draper Mountain in Pulaski County led to the discovery of a red centipede and 16 different types of millipedes and centipedes, including a species previously unidentified in Blacksburg. This revelation reinforces the ongoing importance of studying and understanding these often-overlooked creatures.

As fall descends upon us, these small bugs become particularly active, relying on fallen leaves for both sustenance and shelter. For those who may cringe at the thought of centipedes and millipedes, it’s essential to recognize their ecological significance. Centipedes serve as a vital food source for birds and other animals, contributing to the intricate web of relationships within ecosystems. Meanwhile, millipedes play a crucial role in returning nutrients to the soil, fostering the growth of flowers and trees in the coming spring.

Sign this petition to save the bees!

Animals Are My Favorite People by Tiny Rescue: Animal Collection

Related Content:

• Tiny Insects Swarm NYC Following Canadian Wildfire Smoke
• 8 of the Best Trees for Fall Leaves
• 10 Reasons to Fall In Love with Fall
• Stella the Dog Tackles a Pile of Fall Leaves Like a Boss (VIDEO)

Easy Ways to Help the Planet:

• Eat Less Meat: Download Food Monster, the largest plant-based Recipe app on the App Store, to help reduce your environmental footprint, save animals and get healthy. You can also buy a hard or soft copy of our favorite vegan cookbooks.
• Reduce Your Fast Fashion Footprint: Take initiative by standing up against fast fashion Pollution and supporting sustainable and circular brands like Tiny Rescue that raise awareness around important issues through recycled zero-waste clothing designed to be returned and remade over and over again.
• Support Independent Media: Being publicly funded gives us a greater chance to continue providing high-quality content. Please consider supporting us by donating!
• Sign a Petition: Your voice matters! Help turn petitions into victories by signing the latest list of must-sign petitions to help people, animals, and the planet.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news and important stories involving animals, the environment, sustainable living, food, health, and human interest topics by subscribing to our newsletter!
• Do What You Can: Reduce waste, plant trees, eat local, travel responsibly, reuse stuff, say no to single-use plastics, recycle, vote smart, switch to cold water laundry, divest from fossil fuels, save water, shop wisely, Donate if you can, grow your food, volunteer, conserve energy, compost, and don’t forget about the microplastics and microbeads lurking in common household and personal care products!