Exploring the World of Riffle Beetles and More

Emily interviews Crystal, the Collection Manager of Insects at the Field Museum, about her work with Riffle Beetles. Crystal explains the unique adaptations of these beetles, such as carrying an air bubble underwater for breathing. The discussion covers the evolutionary niche of water beetles and Crystal's recent fieldwork in New Zealand. They explore the role of water beetles as bioindicators for stream health and pollution. The conversation also introduces Blepharcerid flies, highlighting their unique traits and ecological significance.

What is Crystal's role at the Field Museum?

• Collection Manager of Insects

• Curator of Mammals

• Head of Paleontology

• Director of Botany

What unique feature allows Riffle Beetles to live underwater?

• Carrying an air bubble

• Ability to photosynthesize

• Gills for breathing

• Specialized fins

Why did Riffle Beetles evolve to live underwater?

• To exploit an empty niche

• To escape predators

• To avoid competition

• To find more food

What was the purpose of Crystal's trip to New Zealand?

• To collect different populations of water beetles

• To explore new insect species

• To study marine life

• To conduct geological surveys

What is the significance of studying different streams in New Zealand?

• To map the entire region

• To understand different evolutionary paths

• To collect water samples

• To find the largest beetle

How do water beetles help in determining water quality?

• By changing color in polluted water

• By being sensitive to pollution and pH changes

• By increasing in number in clean water

• By migrating to cleaner areas

What is a Blepharcerid?

• A type of fish

• A type of bird

• A type of beetle

• A type of fly

What adaptation do Blepharcerid larvae have?

• Gills for breathing underwater

• Suction cups for attaching to rocks

• Camouflage for hiding

• Wings for flying

What tool can be used to map collecting localities of water beetles?

• Adobe Photoshop

• Microsoft Excel

• Geographic Information System (GIS)

• Google Maps

What is the new common name suggested for Blepharcerid larvae?

• The Sticky Bugs

• The Adorable Maggots

• The Water Dwellers

• The Cute Flies