Mission Unstoppable Season 2 Episode 13 Crickets, Cakes, and Crawlers

As the title suggests, episode 13 of Mission Unstoppable season 2, titled "Crickets, Cakes, and Crawlers," features a range of different creatures and their unique abilities. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey to discover how crickets can change color to match their surroundings, how a team of scientists are studying cockroaches to develop new technologies, and how insects are being used to enhance the nutrition of cakes.

The first segment of the episode focuses on the fascinating ability of crickets to change color. Hosts Miranda Cosgrove and Emily Calandrelli meet with Dr. Nathan Morehouse, an entomologist at the University of Pittsburgh, to learn more about the science behind this incredible transformation. The segment features close-up shots of different species of crickets, highlighting the range of colors and patterns they can produce. Dr. Morehouse explains that the color-changing ability is not just for camouflage but also serves as a signal to attract mates and deter predators. The hosts also get to see a cricket change color in real-time, thanks to a specially designed camera that captures their UV spectrum.

Next up, the show introduces viewers to a team of scientists who are studying cockroaches to develop new technologies. Hosts Jennifer Priestley and Danni Washington meet with Dr. Kaushik Jayaram, a robotics researcher at Harvard University, who is leading the team's efforts. The segment features footage of cockroaches crawling around, navigating obstacles, and even climbing walls. Dr. Jayaram explains that cockroaches are incredibly resilient and adaptable, which makes them an excellent model for developing versatile and robust robots. The hosts also get to try controlling a robot using a joystick, showcasing the potential for these technologies in applications ranging from search and rescue to space exploration.

Finally, the episode explores the use of insects in enhancing the nutrition of cakes. Hosts Tamara Krinsky and Crystal Dilworth travel to a bakery in San Francisco where they meet with Dr. Aaron Dossey, an entrepreneur and entomologist. Dr. Dossey is the founder of All Things Bugs, a company that specializes in developing edible insects for human consumption. The segment features close-up shots of crickets, mealworms, and even scorpions, which are used as ingredients in cakes and other baked goods. Dr. Dossey explains that insects are a sustainable and nutrient-dense source of protein and other essential nutrients. The hosts get to try some of the cakes and are surprised to find that they taste delicious, despite the unconventional ingredients.

Overall, "Crickets, Cakes, and Crawlers" offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of entomology and the cutting-edge research being done with insects. The episode is engaging, informative, and showcases some truly remarkable creatures and their abilities. Viewers will come away with a newfound appreciation for the importance of these small but mighty creatures and the impact they can have on our lives.