Public understanding and awareness of insects in Iraq

Public awareness of insects could be a good starting point to achieve conservation of different taxa of environmental importance. To investigate the degree of individuals’ concept and awareness of insects, a survey study conducted with public in Iraq. Results showed average knowledge of insects’ concepts among public in Iraq and comparatively a slightly higher awareness. Examining those results concerning some socio-demographic characteristics of participants indicated no relationship between these characteristics and awareness. Moreover, participants’ gender and attending an Entomology course did not influence participants understanding of insects. While participants from rural areas showed a better understanding of insect concept than urban participants. While interestingly, participants who enrolled in a University have less knowledge about insects than who did not. Although this study showed an average in general understanding and awareness among public towards insects, it indicates shortcoming in understanding and awareness among University students in general and among students who attended Entomology course to these important taxa. This advocate to develop educational strategies that take into consideration how to motivate students to engage with their environment. Furthermore, supporting public engagement in the significance of insects for both ecosystems and human well-being benefits. Therefore, focusing education campaigns and awareness raising for public towards insects and other underestimated species are urgently needed.