The humble fly may be the most studied animal on Earth

Nature · Published 23 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: We often view insects as pests or minor background noise, but they are actually the primary subjects of global biological research. From acting as police informers to serving as sophisticated indicators of environmental health, these tiny organisms are becoming indispensable partners in our quest to understand the natural world.

Insects are frequently described as the 'little things that run the world' due to their foundational role in terrestrial life. While their roles as pollinators and decomposers are well-documented, a 2022 global review led by Eliza Grames and a team of researchers from eight countries highlights much more nuanced interactions. These include complex symbiotic relationships where insects provide specific environmental services: sloths rely on moths to manage algae growth in their fur for consumption, and desert frogs seek out ant nests specifically for humidity. This comprehensive research project began in 2022 following the creation of a National Science Foundation–funded international network. The study consolidated hundreds of individual papers spanning several decades to map these connections.

The utility of insects extends into the realm of vertebrate survival and medicine. Chimpanzees have been observed using them to sterilize wounds, while herons utilize them as bait. Furthermore, some reptiles and birds use termite mounds as temperature-controlled sanctuaries for their eggs. These behaviors demonstrate that insects are not just a protein source; they provide essential infrastructure—shelter, medicine, and climate control—that supports diverse vertebrate populations.

Because of these multifaceted roles, insects have transitioned from subjects of study to active allies in science. They serve as biological insecticides, agricultural aids, and even indicators of pollution levels. This shift toward viewing insects as partners is driving a new era of conservation strategy. By understanding the specific ways insect biodiversity supports vertebrate life, scientists can design more effective, cross-disciplinary methods to protect entire ecosystems. The humble fly holds the distinction of being the most studied animal species globally. These creatures also function as police informers in specific contexts.

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