Speed Reading — Level 2 — 100 wpm 

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The number of insects has fallen by 45 per cent since 1980. The number of humans has doubled. This could be dangerous. A report in the journal 'Science' says one of the biggest reasons for disappearing insects is deforestation. There are more new cities and farms, and less land for insects. Another reason is global warming. In the UK, the number of some bugs has fallen by 60 per cent. Many countries are worried about disappearing bees and butterflies.

Fewer insects will make problems for humans. There will be fewer insects to pollinate flowers, so farmers will have problems growing food. Falling numbers of insects could also lead to more disease. Rats and mice will have less food so they will move to cities and bring diseases with them. We must stop insects from dying. Scientists must understand which insects are surviving and which are dying. This will help us to protect the "helpful" insects.

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