Nannochorista: small insect, big role in biogeography
Simon Grove
I netted this tiny (10 mm) scorpionfly (Nannochorista maculipennis) on Mount Wellington last summer. While I released this one after photographing it in the net, well-curated insect collections remain the best way of documenting what species are found where and when – and can yield unanticipated insights. A hundred years ago, recognition of the disjunct distribution of nannochoristids in Tasmania, montane south-eastern Australia, New Zealand and Patagonia, based on preserved specimens, contributed to broader scientific acceptance of the ‘Antarctic Theory’ – a forerunner to the theories of continental drift and plate tectonics. We now understand that nannochoristids have a classic Godwanan distribution.
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.
