Bitten by the Bug!

On April 17, 1899, English entomologist Sir Vincent Brian Wigglesworth was born. He created a new science – the study of Insect Physiology – and researched extensively into the role of hormones in insect growth, metamorphosis, and reproduction.

Wigglesworth detailed many physical mechanisms and shared insights such as how some insects walk on walls or upside down and how it is that ants can carry bigger loads for their size than a human being can. His investigations of living insects formed large blocks in the foundation of our present knowledge about the complexity of insects and their interactions with the environment.

The Royal Entomological Society, an international community dedicated to insect science, recognizes Wigglesworth’s contributions with its Wigglesworth Memorial Lecture and Award – a quadrennial honour – to outstanding researchers and practitioners in the sector.

WHAT makes insects so incredible? Where do you even start?

B Bondar