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Why are there so many insects? - Murry Gans

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13,634 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

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If insects suddenly morphed into large beings and decided to wage war on us, there’s no doubt that humans would lose. There are an estimated 10 quintillion individual insects on earth, outnumbering humans by more than a billion to one. So what’s their secret to success? Murry Gans details the reasons behind insect abundance.

WatchThink Dig Deeper Discuss
Which of the following contribute to the success of insects? Mark all that apply. 1) quick reproduction 2) large numbers of offspring 3) small size to take advantage of small habitats 4) adults and offspring sharing the same food sources 5) ability to live in diverse habitats

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Murry Gans
  • Script Editor Emma Bryce
  • Director Esteban Valdez
  • Producer Emilce Diaz
  • Animator Emilce Diaz, Dariel Bencosme , Najja Porter
  • Artist Meike Groh
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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