Final answer:
Insects such as crickets and mealworms are farmed for food due to their nutritional value. Bees and silkworms are examples of insects farmed for materials; bees provide honey and beeswax, while silkworms produce silk for textiles. These insects are crucial for both direct human consumption and the production of valuable materials.
Step-by-step explanation:
Insects Farmed for Food
In some regions, insects are a staple in the human diet and are cultivated for their nutritional value. Two examples of insects farmed for food include:
- Crickets: Crickets are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are often roasted and eaten as a snack.
- Mealworms: Mealworms are the larval form of the mealworm beetle and are another source of nutrients, frequently used in processed forms or whole in dishes.
Insects Farmed for Materials
Insects also produce substances valuable for materials. Two examples of insects farmed for materials include:
- Bees: Bees are farmed primarily for honey but also produce beeswax, which is used in various products such as candles and polishes.
- Silkworms: The cocoons of silkworms are harvested to produce silk, which is woven into luxurious fabrics.
Importance of Insects
Aside from being farmed for food and materials, insects play a critical role in pollinating crops and sustaining the global food supply. They are vital in food chains and thus essential to ecosystems.