Entomologist Adrian Smith (Get to Know a Scientist!)

Adrian, an entomologist, shares his journey into studying insect behavior, focusing on ants and other insects. He discusses his research on trap-jaw ants, their unique snapping jaws, and his work at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Adrian also highlights local insect discoveries, including jumping maggots and a unique larval beetle. He shares his findings on his YouTube channel, Ant Lab, aiming to document and describe new insect behaviors.

What inspired Adrian to pursue a career in entomology?

• A documentary on insect behavior

• A family tradition of studying insects

• Meeting Professor Walter Schinkel in college

• A childhood fascination with insects

What is unique about the trap-jaw ants that Adrian studies?

• They can change color to camouflage

• They are the largest ants in the world

• They have a spring-loaded jaw mechanism

• They can fly long distances

Where do the trap-jaw ants that Adrian studies primarily live?

• Texas

• California

• North Carolina

• Florida

How do the larval flies, or maggots, move without legs?

• They swim through the air

• They curl their bodies and leap

• They roll on the ground

• They use wings to glide

What is the significance of the larval beetle discovered by Adrian?

• It is the largest beetle ever found

• It has a unique color pattern

• It exhibits a new type of animal movement

• It can mimic other insects