Eclipsed

Year: 
2020
Ranking: 
Entrant
Artist: 
Nathaniel Ortega (Undergraduate Student)
Department: 
Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology
Lab: 
Independent Research

Description

This is an image of a rolled leaf micro habitat. A diverse range of colorful critters were found inside these rolled leaves including flies, katydids, acari, true bugs, beetles, and spiders! We need to protect nature to protect both macro and micro habitats like these.

I studied through UCEAP last quarter in Costa Rica in the Tropical Biology and Conservation, Monteverde program. Part of the program was to do an independent research project. My research project was on the use of Heliconia Monteverensis and Calathea Crotalifera rolled leaves by arthropods.These two plants with large leaves. When the leaves are forming they come out rolled.  Some of the beetles found within have evolved to be specialized within the rolled leaves of these species: eating, sleeping, and reproducing within. The rolled leaves of these plants were full of diversity. Imagine all the life unseen in nooks and crannies everywhere. By protecting natural landscapes, we will protect both the large living things and the smaller living things that are usually unseen.

CSEPSchuller LabCNSIUCSBMOXI