Artificial light at night reduces moth movement by 85%, harming pollination and survival.

A University of Exeter study finds artificial nighttime lighting drastically reduces moth movement, with activity dropping 85% at just 10 lux—similar to residential streetlights—regardless of LED color, including amber. The research, involving over 800 moths from 23 species, shows light pollution disrupts their behavior even at low levels like 0.1 lux, potentially affecting feeding, mating, and survival. As moths are key pollinators and prey, reduced activity may contribute to population declines amid other environmental threats. The findings underscore the need to address light pollution as a major factor in the decline of nocturnal insects.