Abstract

The insect microbiome plays a crucial role in host survival, development, and adaptation. Dominated primarily by Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, gut microbial communities vary widely among insect groups such as Coleoptera and Diptera. This article highlights two major forms of mutualism: nutritional symbiosis, in which microbes aid digestion and nutrient synthesis, and defensive symbiosis, where beneficial bacteria produce antimicrobial compounds that protect hosts from pathogens. Understanding these intricate microbial interactions offers promising opportunities for advancing sustainable agriculture, biological pest management, medicine, and biodiversity conservation.