The Amazing Ways Bugs Help Us Build the World
What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you see a bug? Is it how annoying they are when they buzz around your head? Or how itchy they are when they bite?
You may not have thought about the amazing role these tiny creatures have played in shaping human history, culture, and innovation. Yet, from ancient trade routes to modern design, bugs have left their mark on the world in ways we often overlook.
So let’s put the fly swatters aside, step away from the mosquito repellent, and dig into some fascinating examples of how bugs have impacted the way we live.
How Silkworms Weave the Fabric of Civilization
If you’re looking for one of the most important ways humans have used bugs, it’s hard to beat the silkworm.
Native to China, these tiny but mighty insects are the unsung heroes behind one of the world’s most sought-after fabrics, silk. More than 4,000 years ago, Chinese women began raising and domesticating silkworms and perfected the art of spinning the thread while keeping the silk-making process a closely guarded secret.
The demand for silk grew so large that it spurred the development of the Silk Road, a vast network of trade routes connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. But the Silk Road was about more than just cloth. This global highway also facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture, leaving a lasting impact on human history. Without silkworms, this great era of trade and cultural connection might never have existed.
Color Your World with Cochineal
If your favorite color is red, you probably have one tiny bug to thank for it—the cochineal insect.
In the world of dyes, cochineal stands out for its role in creating striking red pigments. Living on cacti in Central and South America, these insects produce carminic acid, which is the secret to the deep red dye carmine.
Back in the 1600s and 1700s, cochineal became a prized commodity. Spanish colonists recognized its value and exported it to Europe, where it transformed textiles, paintings, and even cosmetics. The bright red color of the British Army’s “redcoat” uniforms and countless other traditional garments is attributed to these tiny insects.
Even today, cochineal dyes continue to be an important natural alternative to synthetic pigments in food and cosmetics, keeping the legacy of cochineal alive.
Termite mounds keep buildings cool
While termites are often viewed as destructive pests, their intricate nests have inspired architects and engineers around the world. Termite mounds—particularly those built by African and Australian species—are marvels of natural design. These towering structures regulate temperature and airflow with amazing precision, creating a comfortable environment for the ant colony, no matter what the weather is like outside.
Today, architects are taking inspiration from termite mounds to create energy-efficient buildings. For example, the Eastgate Centre in Zimbabwe is renowned for using a termite-inspired ventilation system that minimizes the need for artificial air conditioning. This design saves energy while keeping the building cool, proving that even the smallest creatures can teach us valuable lessons about sustainability.
Where would we be without bees?
Do you know how humans transitioned from hunters to gatherers? This feat would not have been possible without bees. These pollinators have played an important role in agriculture for thousands of years, allowing humans to grow fruits and vegetables.
Even the ancient Egyptians recognized the importance of bees. While cats often stole the spotlight in ancient Egypt, bees were also revered. Bees and beekeeping are ubiquitous in ancient art, and the Egyptians even used honey in religious rituals.
But bees’ contributions extend beyond pollination and honey. Their hexagonal honeycomb structures have fascinated scientists and engineers for centuries. These natural designs have been praised for their efficiency and strength, and have fueled innovations in packaging, construction, and even aerospace technology.