Experts probe possible link between cellphone towers and diminishing insect life.(News)

BYLINE: Guy Rogers

PORT ELIZABETH: Two top South African insect specialists are in the final phase of a three-year study aimed at determining if there is a link between cellphone base stations and a perceived decline in insect populations.

Max Clark and Peter Hawkes were commissioned by E Oppenheimer and Son following observations documented at Brenthurst Gardens in Johannesburg and Emzemvelo Nature Reserve at Bronkhorstspruit.

"About R1 million" had been invested in the project so far, said group conservation manager Duncan MacFadyen.

Clark said the project had been initiated by Strilli Oppenheimer, wife of De Beers mining giant chairman …