Ants have taken over every continent with social strategies, swarm intelligence and adaptability. With a global biomass rivaling humans, these tiny powerhouses thrive from tropical jungles to urban parks. Could their cooperation, flexibility and ancient lineage explain their incredible success?

With over 350,000 species, beetles come in every shape, size and color—and live just about everywhere. From dung-feeders to predators to weightlifting champs, beetles owe their success to ancient, adaptable designs and diverse diets. What evolutionary tricks gave rise to these fabulous insects?