Muhammad Umar Hayat
Insects, often regarded as tiny and insignificant creatures, are in reality one of the most remarkable gifts from God to humanity and the planet. These small beings, diverse and abundant, play critical roles in maintaining the balance of ecosystems, supporting human life, and demonstrating God’s wisdom in creation. From the humble bee that pollinates the flowers to the industrious ant that engineers complex underground colonies, insects are a testament to nature’s brilliance and the complexity of God’s creation. Despite their size, their impact is monumental.
More than one million species of insects have been discovered and described but it is estimated that there may be as many as 10 million species on the planet earth. It is estimated that insects make up to 90% of all species of animals on the planet earth and more than half of all living things. Insects can be found in almost every habitat, from mountain ranges covered in snow to the hottest deserts on the planet earth. Insects are more than 350 million years old, older than the dinosaurs and flowering plants. Here is the overview of role of insect to understand the importance.
Pollination is an important ecological service provided by insects such as bees, butterflies, moths and beetles. This process is essential for the reproduction of many flowering plants, including many of the crops that form the basis of human nutrition. Fruits, vegetables, nuts and even coffee owe their existence to the relentless work of these creatures. Without them, global food security would be at risk, leading to mass famine and ecological collapse. In fact, the tiny bees that we often take for granted directly affect a significant portion of the food we eat.
Insects also play a critical role in nutrient recycling. Decomposers like beetles, flies, and ants break down organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, recycling nutrients back into the soil. This process enriches the earth, ensuring that plants have the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. The dung beetle, for example, efficiently disposes of animal waste, preventing the spread of disease while enhancing soil fertility. Such activities underscore the interconnectedness of life and how insects play a foundational role in maintaining the health of ecosystems.
Predatory insects such as ladybugs, dragonflies, and wasps also act as natural pesticides. By eating the pests like aphids, mosquitoes, and caterpillars, they help regulate insect populations that could otherwise devastate crops and spread diseases. This natural method of pest management reduces the reliance on chemical pesticides, which can harm the environment and human health. Therefore, Insects not only support agriculture through pollination but also protect it by keeping harmful pathogens in check. This dual role reflects their indispensable contribution to human well-being.
The impact of insects extends beyond ecological functions; they support advances in technology and science. For example, butterfly wing patterns have been shown to lead to the development of new products with features such as waterproofing and colour control. The efficient social organization of ants and bees provides deep insights into collective intelligence, influencing fields ranging from robotics to artificial intelligence. Biomimicry (the practice of imitating nature’s designs) has often turned to insects for solutions to complex human challenges. This ability of insects to innovate is another reason to regard insects as divine gifts.
Insects contribute to the biodiversity that is essential to the resilience of life on Earth. They form the base of food chain of many animals, including birds, reptiles and mammals. Without insects, these species would struggle to survive, causing a ripple effect through entire ecosystems. The loss of insects could trigger a cascade of extinctions, demonstrating their vital role in sustaining life. This complex web of interactions represents the divine wisdom that everything, no matter how small, has a purpose and a place.
There are practical applications that directly benefit humans. In some cultures, it is a nutritious food rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. Entomophagy, the practice of eating insects, is slowly being accepted as a sustainable solution to the global food crisis. Raising insects requires fewer resources than traditional animal husbandry, making them a better and an eco-friendly alternative to other meats. Some insects also produce substances that humans have used for centuries, such as silkworms and honey produced by bees. These awards highlight the benefits the insects provide.
The role of insects in scientific research is another area where they are beneficial. The fruit fly species Drosophila melanogaster has played an important role in genetic research by pioneering the understanding of genetic diseases and developmental biology. Their biological simplicity and rapid growth make them ideal for experiments. Through these studies, scientists obtain information that will benefit not only humans but all living things. The ability to contribute to more knowledge makes the insects even more important.
Insects can also be indicators of environmental health. Because they are sensitive to changes in their habitat, their presence or absence can signal the state of the ecosystem. For example, the decline in bee populations highlights the dangers of pesticide use and habitat loss. By paying attention to these signals, people can take proactive steps to find solutions to environmental problems before they become serious. The fact that insects are both guardians and messengers of nature emphasizes the need for humans to live in harmony with nature.
The beauty and recreational value of insects cannot be overstated. For example, butterfly gardens bring joy and relaxation to countless people and foster an appreciation for nature. Fireflies light up summer nights, creating a beautiful moment of awe and connection to the sacred. These experiences remind us of the simple pleasures that nature offers us and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
Insects also play an important role in cultural and spiritual life around the world. In many societies, they are symbols of resilience, transformation and renewal. The emergence of a butterfly from its cocoon symbolizes transformation and new beginnings. The industriousness of ants is often used as a metaphor for hard work and determination. Even in religious texts, insects are described as instruments of God’s will, indicating their spiritual importance. For example, the plagues of Egypt in the Bible and the industrious bees in the Islamic tradition remind us of our Creator’s power and providence.
Despite their immense value, insects also face many threats from human activities. Habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, and pesticide use have led to a decline in insect populations worldwide. This loss is not only an environmental problem, but also a moral one, as it reveals that humanity is not being good custodian of God’s creation. Protecting the insects is a sacred duty that aligns with the holy call to care for the planet earth. People can help support the survival of non-essential wildlife by planting native plants, reducing pesticide use, and encouraging conservation efforts.
Conclusion; Insects are not just living things; they are essential to life on planet Earth and are rooted in God’s plan and purpose. They sustain ecosystems, foster innovation, sustain agriculture, and foster human culture and spirituality. There is greatness in their smallness, reminding us that even God’s smallest creations are precious and important. By seeing and appreciating insects as a gift from God, humans can learn humility, responsibility, and the importance of living in harmony with all living things. Protecting and appreciating insects is not only an ecological imperative, but also a tribute to the Creator and the diverse and interconnected world in which we are privileged to live.
The Student is M. Phil Zoology Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Emerson University Multan
