Expert Lecture: The Spindly and Wonderful World of Stick Insects

It is well known that stick insects are the masters of camouflage, but did you know that some of them can also spray acid or simulate a leaf swaying with the wind? If you are interested in learning more about these fascinating insects, please come and join this talk by Target Species Manager, Fransico Garcia Bulle Bueno on November 3rd.    

Bio: Francisco completed a B.S. in Biology from the National Autonomous University of Mexico in 2017. He then completed a PhD on Entomology at the University of Sydney, Australia in 2021. Francisco’s main areas of research have been breeding, husbandry, reproductive behavior, and management of bees. He has successfully published six scientific papers on bee’s biology on peer reviewed journals. During his PhD, Francisco also worked with schools, universities, refugees, beekeepers and senior adults delivering science communication workshops with the aim of promoting environmental and sustainability in urban environments by teaching the importance of insects and their habitats in Australia. He was also the manager of a stingless bee program run by tone of the councils in Sydney where he managed and propagated over 100 colonies of stingless bees every year. After finishing his PhD and before the Butterfly Pavilion, Francisco worked on developing conservation projects in the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico working with local people and raising awareness about the importance of bees and general biodiversity. 

Tickets:

• $35 general admission
• $30 member   

• Mastering Camouflage Techniques: Discover the intricate world of stick insects and their unparalleled mastery of camouflage, including the fascinating ability to simulate a leaf swaying with the wind. 
• Defensive Mechanisms: Gain insights into the defensive strategies of stick insects, from the remarkable ability to spray acid to other intriguing adaptations that contribute to their survival in various environments. 
• Breeding and Reproductive Behavior: Explore Francisco Garcia Bulle Bueno’s expertise in breeding, husbandry, and reproductive behavior of insects, with a focus on his extensive research and practical experience with bees. 
• Science Communication for Environmental Awareness: Learn about Francisco’s background in science communication and how he has effectively engaged with diverse audiences, including schools, universities, refugees, and senior adults, to promote environmental sustainability and the significance of insects in urban environments. 
• Conservation Initiatives: Understand Francisco’s contribution to conservation projects, particularly in the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico, where he worked with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of bees and biodiversity, emphasizing the practical aspects of conservation efforts.