I’m a Bug Detective, investigating beetle communities to unlock their secrets in Tasmania’s wet forests. Beetles help forests thrive by recycling nutrients, supporting fungi, and providing food for wildlife. But how does forest management —like timber production or protection of old-growth forests— influence these tiny forest heroes? My research explores beetle communities across plantations, native forests, old-growth areas, and wildfire-affected landscapes. By understanding beetle responses, we can better support ecosystems and inform strategies to maintain resilient forests. My detective work reveals how tiny beetles can lead to big solutions, ensuring healthy forests for generations to come.
Research keyword: Forest ecology, entomology
About the BEAKER STREET ROVING SCIENTIST PROGRAM
Each August, hundreds of Roving Scientists descend upon Hobart, filling up pubs and chatting to strangers as part of Beaker Street Festival. Discover a new world down the lens of microscope, and joining the least-boring bar conversations you’ve ever heard and these free (the chats – not the drinks) events.
For Scientists, Beaker Street’s Roving Scientist Program offers an excellent outreach, professional development, and networking opportunity. It’s the nerdiest and funnest way to share your research with the public, expand your network, and be inspired by leaders in all sectors of science and science communication.
