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Plot twist: We're probably way undercounting insects on Earth episode artwork

Jul 10, 2026 9 min

Plot twist: We're probably way undercounting insects on Earth

from Short Wave

Maybe you’ve wondered about it late at night as a mosquito buzzes in your ear. Or when you kick over a rock and watch dozens of little critters crawl away: How many types of insects are there in the world? Scientists have been interested in answering this question for years. A new study — based on a census of tiny and, frankly terrifying, parasitoid wasps — suggests there’s way more than previously thought. Like, millions more that are just waiting to be discovered. Interested in more bug science in the news? Email us your question at [email protected]. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. It includes perks like bonus episodes, early access, archive access, curated playlists and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. NPR Privacy Policy

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Plot twist: We're probably way undercounting insects on Earth

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This episode was published on July 10, 2026.

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