A bug science bonanza

From adventurous eaters to budding biologists, more than 1,700 visitors swarmed the University of Minnesota’s Twin Cities campus in St. Paul this past Saturday for the 2026 Great Minnsect Show. Hosted by the Department of Entomology, part of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), the event turned the department’s mission into a hands-on festival of discovery. The day served as a high-energy showcase of how biodiversity and ecology impact everything from global dinner plates to the health of the environment.

 

The atmosphere was electric as attendees of all ages explored the wonders of entomology. The event was designed to balance festive entertainment with rigorous science, proving that learning about science is most effective when it is interactive. While participants enjoyed insect-themed games and crafts, these activities provided a gateway to the essential research conducted by the Department of Entomology. The show effectively demonstrated that insects are not merely backyard visitors, but vital players in human welfare and environmental sustainability.

One of the day’s most popular attractions involved an appetite for adventure. The focus on sustainable food systems caught the attention of MPR News, which featured the event's exploration of entomophagy, or the practice of eating insects. Dr. Sujaya Rao spoke with reporters about the environmental and nutritional logic of incorporating insects into human diets, noting that they offer a high-protein, low-footprint alternative to traditional livestock. Visitors had the chance to sample insect-based snacks, sparking lively conversations about the future of global nutrition and how these creatures might help solve significant food security challenges.

 

Beyond the snacks, the show provided a rare opportunity for the public to engage directly with professionals in the field. Entomologists from academia, industry, government, and non-profits were available to answer questions and discuss diverse career paths. Whether the topic was protecting Minnesota’s agricultural yields or monitoring how climate change affects local species, the dialogue between experts and the community was constant and insightful.

The day’s presentations kept the crowd engaged by making complex topics accessible. Dr. Cristian Beza-Beza shared the process of discovering new species, while Dr. Elaine Evans led listeners on a "Bumble Bee Nest Quest." Dr. Vera Krischik provided practical tips on managing landscapes for better biodiversity, and Dr. Stephen Kells concluded the series by showing how curiosity and simple questions lead to significant scientific breakthroughs.

 

By the conclusion of the event, the message was clear: science is a compelling subject when it involves the crawling and flying world. The 2026 Great Minnsect Show was a resounding success, proving that when it comes to understanding the environment, the small stuff really matters.