Clive Darwell

Editor’s summary Recent research has revealed a worrisome, and seemingly increasing, decline in insect populations globally. That said, not all species have been shown to be declining, and the reasons for the differences are not always clear. Liu et al. looked at ant species, using a community genetics approach, on remote Fijian islands to determine susceptibility to human impacts and disturbance.

In the standard form, Greek tragedy presents a heroic protagonist driven by overwhelming passion to execute or prevent a dramatic event. However, desire typically corrupts their principles and judgement to hasten the unfolding disaster.