Students identify new insect species through citizen science
By Ashmeeta Subra 27 March 2025
Thousands of young minds across Australia are helping researchers map out Australia’s insect biodiversity while making exciting new discoveries.
In a fun twist on traditional classroom environments, a citizen science project called Insect Investigators is offering students the chance to discover new species and make a difference in the world of science. Over 1,800 students from 50 regional schools across three states received the opportunity to collect insects, observe their behaviours and even name new species.
Among the discoveries include a wasp called Apanteles darthvaderi, named by students at Back Plains State School after a certain infamous Star Wars character due to its ‘dark side’ characteristics in attacking caterpillars. Others include Mirax supremus (named after the top science class at Beerwah State High School) and Coccygidium mellosiheroine, which means “honey-coloured hero” (named by students from Queensland who considered the wasp a hero as it attacks a crop pest).
Insects play a hugely important role in most healthy ecosystems, but many species have yet to be documented formally. With populations declining in Australia and globally, it’s important to understand more about these tiny creatures and their critical role in our environment.
Overall, the students collected over 12,000 insect specimens, including over 5,400 individual species. Many are still new to science and over 3,000 had not been recorded in the Barcode of Life DNA database (BOLD). In this process insects are sent to experts who use DNA barcoding to identify and catalogue them, contributing to a growing understanding of Australia’s insect diversity.
The initiative not only allows students learn more about insects but also helps them develop a deeper connection to nature and fosters greater interest in science. Several students have expressed interest in spending more time outdoors and teachers have also observed a boost in enthusiasm, making science lessons more interactive and exciting for learners.
Schools Tree Day is another great opportunity to enhance student connection with nature and promote environmental education. This year’s event is set to take place on Friday 25 July, encouraging students, teachers and the wider school community to come together in support of our natural environment.
Credits to Andy Howe (group photo of students), Katherine Oestmann & Olivia Portmann (Apanteles darthvaderi figure) and The Conversation.
Planet Ark does not take responsibility for the accuracy of the original information and encourages readers to check the references before using this information for their own purposes.
With background in international relations and marketing communications, Ashmeeta is excited to use her skills to encourage positive environmental actions through Planet Ark. She believes that by taking small actions, we can help make a big difference and be good stewards of our planet. She also loves spending time in nature and being at the beach.
