Habitat Intrusion

May 3, 2008 | Filed Under Nature | Leave a Comment 

The butterfly colony in this lush American forest was distraught over the building of a trail and the construction of a bridge in their fragile habitat. For weeks a sentinel stood watch as the project developed. There was much concern that the breeding patterns would be disrupted leading to their population decline and probable demise. Fortunately, the builders were sensitive to the sustainability of a healthy ecosystem and this disaster never came to pass. Now the butterflies delight the hikers with their rhythmic flying prowess and displays of their resplendent colors. In the commotion of taking pictures, the hikers inadvertently drop crumbs of food from which the butterflies can extract nutrients.

Life is Challenging

May 1, 2008 | Filed Under Nature | Leave a Comment 

BUGCHIP - Two denizens of the forest exchange pleasantries although they are worlds apart.

Overgrowth

April 28, 2008 | Filed Under Nature | Leave a Comment 

Look at this effect on plant growth caused by insect penetration. All of those little spots are the result of insects drilling down into new soft plant tissue to extract nutrients. Some insects will “sting” plants to cause them to produce galls or swell larger and deform significantly. They then lay their eggs (in the injury) and the plant acts as an incubation chamber until the larvae can exit to continue their life cycle. The leaf on the right is an example of the incubation chamber created by stinging to form a blister. Seems cool and cruel at the same time.