In Love with Insects, The World's Largest Private Collection

Charlie and Lois, a couple with the largest private insect collection, share their journey from meeting at the University of Arizona to traveling the world collecting insects. They discuss their research on weevils and plant hoppers, the process of mounting and sorting insects, and their decision to donate their collection to Arizona State University. They reflect on their work ethic and offer advice for aspiring entomologists, emphasizing the importance of having a supportive partner in the field.

How did Charlie and Lois first meet?

• Through mutual friends who were also entomologists

• At a conference on entomology

• During a field trip to collect insects

• At the University of Arizona, where Charlie was a teaching assistant

What is unique about the weevils that Charlie studies?

• They are the largest family of living organisms

• They are known for their loud buzzing sound

• They are the smallest family of living organisms

• They have the most colorful wings

What do plant hoppers feed on?

• The nectar of flowers

• The juices of plants, such as floam or xylem

• The leaves of trees

• The roots of shrubs

What is the purpose of donating their insect collection to Arizona State University?

• To sell it for profit

• To have it displayed in a museum

• To give it to a private collector

• To enable research to be conducted on it

What advice does Lois give to aspiring entomologists regarding marriage?

• Avoid discussing work at home

• Travel separately to collect insects

• Find a spouse who is also an entomologist

• Marry someone who is not interested in insects