Nerd Nite Austin #174: Cute as a Bug

Thursday, September 25th, 7:30pm at Barrel O’ Fun and on Twitch

This month we have talks about some of the most interesting and cutest bugs!

 

“Lights Out, Y’all: The Case of the Missing Texas Fireflies” by Ben Pfeiffer

A fast-paced, nerdy, and fun dive into the history and mystery of fireflies in the Lone Star State. You’ll learn how these glowing insects evolved, which species call Texas home, and why their numbers are fading. Along the way, Ben will share how to spot fireflies in the wild, what’s driving their decline, and what we can do to help bring the lights back.

Ben is the founder of Firefly Conservation & Research at Firefly.org, where he works to conserve Texas fireflies and their habitats through education, outreach, and scientific research. A sixth-generation Texan and lifelong naturalist, his work has led to new discoveries about Texas fireflies, including previously unknown life history details and flash patterns, so that others can better understand, preserve, and enjoy them.

 

“Leafcutter Ants and their Fungi Farms” by Juju Dessert

Juju’s research focuses on the proteins within the leafcutter ant-fungus symbiosis, particularly on the enzymes involved in the breakdown of plant biomass. This presentation dives into the life cycle of a leafcutter ant colony, explains the origins of the cultivation of the fungus, and reveals the processes involved in plant degradation.

Juju is a PhD student in Molecular Biology at the University of Texas at Austin, and obtained her Bachelors at University of Wisconsin, Madison in Entomology. (yay bugs!)

 

Nerd Nite happens at


the bar inside the
Alamo Drafthouse Mueller

  • Shows are (usually) the last Thursday of every month at 7:30pm.
  • The Barrel opens at 4pm. The show is free, so arrive early to get a good seat.
  • There will be an intermission between the speakers.
  • They have a full bar including beers on tap and a great food menu.
  • There’s parking in the garage behind the Alamo Mueller along McBee street. Barrel O’ Fun will validate parking for up to 4 hours. Look for the QR code at the ticket desk.
  • The Barrel O’ Fun website has menus, map and more.