Abstract
<jats:p>While nocturnal mammals, birds, and bats often capture the spotlight, the true architects of the dark – both in number and ecological importance – are the social insects. Taking termites, ants, and honey bees as central examples, this chapter explores the multifaceted nature of nighttime activity in these insect societies. We examine the duality of termite life: from existence in perpetual nest darkness to precisely timed, crepuscular nuptial flights. We highlight the flexibility of ants, which range from strictly nocturnal foragers to opportunistic switchers, adapting their strategies to ecological niches. And we consider honey bees – a diurnal society – whose internal, ever-dark “factory” operates with circadian precision, now threatened by light pollution. Together, these examples reveal a sophisticated evolutionary trade-off between genetically anchored adaptations – such as specialized sensory systems – and behavioral plasticity in response to environmental pressures. Finally, we discuss how artificial light, noise, and climate change are disrupting this delicate balance, putting at risk the biodiversity and ecosystem functions sustained by these vital architects of the night.</jats:p>