Absolute Precision
Keith Martin-Smith
Tasmania has more than 1000 species of native wasp. The life histories of the majority of these species, including their larval hosts, is unknown. This Darwin wasp, Labena sp., uses her sensitive antennae to detect the movements of a beetle larva deep in its tunnel in a tree trunk. She then unsheathes her ovipositor and, using special grooves on her hind legs, manoeuvres this thin tube expertly through the tunnels in the wood. Once her ovipositor makes contact with a beetle larva she will lay one or more eggs that will develop inside the larva. Although this might seem brutal or cruel, native wasps are vital in controlling insects that, unchecked, would devastate the native vegetation. And the precision involved in guiding a tube which is the same length as her entire body has to be admired!
BEAKER STREET SCIENCE PHOTOGRAPHY PRIZE
This photograph was a finalist in Beaker Street’s annual Science Photography Prize. This highly-respected prize invites amateur and professional photographers to showcase the wonders of our extraordinary part of the world — which is teeming with science and scientists. Finalist images are displayed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery during Beaker Street Festival each August, with great prizes on offer for Judges’ and People’s Choice winners.
The Beaker Street Science Photography Prize is sponsored by Pennicott Foundation — thank you crew! It would not be possible without the support of Full Gamut, Tasmania’s premier fine art printers, as well as the wonderful Tasmanian businesses who donate prizes.
