Humanity’s history has been intertwined with insects in unexpected ways, with several species profoundly impacting our lives, industries, and understanding of the world. Here’s a reimagined look at five insects that have transformed the course of human civilization:

1. Domestic Silk Moth (Bombyx mori)

Silk production has its origins over 5,000 years ago, with the mythical Chinese empress Leizu discovering its potential when a cocoon unraveled into a shimmering thread in her teacup. This sericulture industry led to the Silk Road, a trade network that spurred economic and cultural exchange across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. China’s initial monopoly on silk production eventually waned when silkworms were smuggled abroad. Today, silk’s unique properties—biocompatibility, tensile strength, and sheen—make it a cornerstone of industries from fashion to biomedical engineering. However, domestication has rendered the silk moth flightless and entirely dependent on human care.

2. Western Honeybee (Apis mellifera)

As one of humanity’s oldest partners, the honeybee has been vital for agriculture, art, and sustenance. Early cave art from 7,500 years ago depicts humans stealing honeycomb, a testament to the bee’s long-standing value. Honey and beeswax have had myriad uses—from candles to medicine to preserving ancient artifacts. Beyond their products, honeybees pollinate countless crops, securing food supplies for billions. Their iconic honeycomb also inspires architectural designs and engineering solutions.

3. Cochineal Bug (Dactylopius coccus)

For centuries, cochineal insects were meticulously cultivated by the Aztecs and Mayans to produce a brilliant red dye. This scarlet pigment became a sensation in Europe, adorning the garments of nobility, military uniforms, and religious robes. The dye was so valuable that its production remained a guarded secret until stolen by European explorers. Today, cochineal continues to provide a natural alternative to synthetic red dyes in foods and cosmetics, cementing its place in global culture.

4. Lac Insect (Kerria lacca)

This tiny insect exudes a resin that humans process into shellac, used historically as a protective coating for furniture, artworks, and even food items. The versatility of shellac extends into beauty products like nail polish and hairspray. Despite being omnipresent, few recognize this insect’s role in everyday products. Lac is the only commercially viable resin from an animal source, symbolizing the unnoticed but critical contributions of insects.

5. Common Fruit Fly (Drosophila melanogaster)

Though diminutive, the fruit fly is a giant in the field of genetics and biological research. Sharing 60% of its DNA with humans, it has been central to breakthroughs in understanding heredity, gene function, and neurological processes. From being the first creature to experience space travel to mapping neural connections, fruit flies continue to serve as vital models for scientific discovery.

These insects exemplify how the smallest creatures can have outsized impacts on human history and innovation. Whether through textiles, agriculture, art, or science, these five species have shaped the world as we know it.