Insects are perhaps most abundant by total weight on earth. Insect species perform numerous functions in upkeeping our world. They are pollinators; they are biological controllers; they are good protein makers -- they can convert plant materials to proteins very efficiently [compare to cattle (6 kg of carbohydrates to 1 kg of beef), chicken (3 kg of carbohydrates to 1 kg of meat)]. Insects can convert plants to proteins close to 100% efficiency.

Increasing farming production by mechanisation, fertilization, GM, etc, may be very much less efficient than raising insects for food ;-)

Next time we see fried insects on display for sale, stop giggling and try eating some. We will be eating them instead of beef or fish, soon.