Booming cockroach numbers welcome news on this 'paradise of creatures'
A recent study indicates a significant increase in invertebrate populations on Lord Howe Island following the eradication of invasive rodents in 2019. Native cockroaches and other invertebrates are thriving, contributing to the island's ecosystem health. Researchers plan to study the impact on higher-order predators as the ecosystem continues to evolve.
- ▪Invertebrate life on Lord Howe Island has increased by about 60% since the removal of invasive rodents.
- ▪The study collected 15,000 invertebrate specimens in 2023, compared to 9,000 in 2016-17.
- ▪Native bush cockroaches and isopods have shown the strongest population increases.
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Lord Howe Island invertebrates boom after rodent eradicationBy Emma SiossianABC Mid North CoastTopic:ConservationWed 27 May 2026 at 12:34pmWed 27 May 2026 at 12:34pmWed 27 May 2026 at 12:34pmMaxim Adams in the field recording invertebrate numbers on Lord Howe Island. (Supplied: Nicholas Carlile)In short:A new study shows invertebrate life on Lord Howe Island has significantly increased since the eradication of rodents in 2019.Experts say invertebrates, including native island cockroaches, are vital to the health of the broader island ecosystemWhat's next?A study will now be done of larger "higher-order" predators on the island to see how they have been affected.abc.net.au/news/lord-howe-island-insect-boom-after-rodent-eradication/106723718Link copiedShareShare articleA boom in cockroach…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).