The 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo has been the subject of much discussion, with construction delays, methane gas issues, and the “sparse sunshade” that has become a meme online. Meanwhile, a “mass outbreak of insects” is now making waves on social media. Small insects fluttering about filling the sky. They look like mosquitoes, but they are actually midges. In fact, this insect is also an important “beneficial insect” for human society. This time, we will introduce the ecology of chironomids, which attracted attention at the Osaka Expo, and some surprisingly beneficial insects that support our daily lives.
🔽Site oficial da Osaka Expo
Mass outbreak at the Expo! The true identity of the insects is “chironomids”
A large number of small insects suddenly appeared at the Expo site – their true identity is a type of insect called a chironomid. Although they look just like mosquitoes, they do not suck blood and do not directly harm humans. They are insects classified as flies, and their larvae are called bloodworms and feed on organic matter in the water, helping to purify it. In other words, they are nature’s “cleaners,” and their work can be considered part of the water purification system.
However, when they reach adulthood, they can multiply in large numbers, creating “mosquito swarms” and causing annoyance to the landscape and daily life… For this reason, they have both the dual nature of being both a “beneficial insect” and an “annoying pest.”
Why is this happening? What’s the reason?
Chironomids lay eggs in waterside or wetlands, where they hatch and grow. The Osaka Expo site features a waterfront environment such as the Water Plaza, and it is thought that this, combined with the warmth of spring, caused the chironomids to multiply rapidly. The organizers are currently taking measures such as spraying foaming agents and installing insecticides and insecticidal lights, and Earth Chemical has also announced its cooperation.
Actually, they’re amazing! Beneficial insects are the best friends of humanity
Taking midges as a starting point, this time we would like to introduce some famous beneficial insects that support our daily lives.
Silkworms
Silk thread, obtained from silkworm cocoons, is a natural material that has supported human culture for thousands of years. It is said that the silk industry began in Japan during the Yayoi period, and even today it is indispensable for Japanese kimono culture and high-end textiles. It is no exaggeration to say that silk is the “king of beneficial insects that support the economy.”
Honeybees
They are representative pollinators that help with pollination by carrying pollen and contribute to crop production. (Pollinator =An organism that carries pollen and helps with pollination of plants）They are versatile beneficial insects that provide us with many blessings, including honey, royal jelly, and beeswax.
It is said that if honeybees were to become extinct, world food production would be in serious danger.
●Hunter spider
Cockroach extermination expert. Affectionately known on the Internet as “Sergeants,” they are silent guardians who secretly hunt pests in the kitchen at night. It is said that huntsman spiders can eradicate cockroaches. Although they look impressive, they are non-toxic and harmless to humans.
Earthworms
Soil improvement professionals. It breaks down organic matter in the soil and produces nutrient-rich soil with a granular structure as excrement. It is an essential part of agriculture and gardening.
Pill Bug
They are “forest cleaners” that decompose organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead wood, enriching the soil. They are cute and popular with children, but they are actually hard workers who play a part in environmental regeneration.
●Centipede
They may look a little grotesque, but they are a reliable prey that prefers to hunt cockroaches, which are pests. He is the unsung hero of the household, fast and skilled enough to jump and catch a flying cockroach.
Ladybug
Ladybugs are cute insects that are popular with both adults and children. They are also known as lucky insects because of their climbing habits. They prey on aphids, which are a natural enemy of gardening. One adult ladybug can live for up to 10 years.Hundreds to thousands of aphidsIt is also said to eat.
Summary: Insects are part of society too⁉︎
This time we are introducing beneficial insects, in reference to the mass outbreak of chironomids that was a hot topic at the Osaka Expo. It is important to understand that insects that are often thought of as “just a nuisance” actually have a role to play in the natural world. Beneficial insects that are usually inconspicuous are working quietly in our daily lives to support us. We hope that this opportunity will help you to understand that insects that may seem unpleasant at first glance are also “supporters” of human society.
I usually introduce photo spots from a photographer’s perspective, but I would like to continue covering topics that are attracting attention like this in the future.
Thank you for reading to the end. I will continue to convey the beauty of Japan. I hope to enrich your lives even a little. I look forward to your opinions and feedback. I hope you will check out other content on Instagram and YouTube.
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