Jose Luis Ramirez, director of the United Nation’s University’s Biotechnology Program for Latin America and the Caribbean, is enthusiastic about using insects to restore artwork. He commented:

“Certain bugs, once harnessed, are cheap and effective defences against humidity and insects. We can use the toxins produced by some bugs to counter other pests or fungus.”

One particular insect-exterminating bacterium is Bacillus thuringiensis, whose toxin crystals are deadly to insects, and, when consumed, they literally explode the insect’s guts.

The major advantage of this relatively basic and primitive method of conservation is that it does not rely on sophisticated and expensive equipment. As Ramirez blatantly points out “all you need are bugs.”

“We predict an expansion in this field and the further development of biotechnological techniques, which will open up new opportunities to both biologists and artwork preservers,” the scientist added.

Biotechnology has undoubtedly been a key component in the advancement of medicine, agriculture, industry and biological sciences. Although latterly using biotechnology within the realms of genetically modified food, it has been regarded by many with suspicion and scepticism. Used within the context of art and heritage, biotechnology and bug eating bugs could prove invaluable to the preservation of cultural heritage worldwide.

Gabrielle Pickard for RT