There are an estimated 10 quintillion insects on the planet right now. If that fact doesn’t get you itchy and reaching for the bug spray, check out this latest video in the Speaking of Chemistry series with Chemical & Engineering News’ Associate Editor Matt Davenport.

Looking at the impressively explosive butts of bombardier beetles, the digestive tract of the fall armyworm and the naturally fire-retardant emissions of Rasberry crazy ants, Matt explains how these small critters are chemically creative in their survival.