The socieTy of biology magazine ■ issn 0006-3347Biologist ■ socieTyofbiology.org Vol 59 no 4 ■ ocTober 2012

WoRKeRS, DRoneS & QUeenS UK ants up close and the results of our flying ant survey

AnimAL WeLFARe photo competition emBRYoLoGY FRieSiAn FRienDS Science in FocUS iAn WiLmUt Why dairy cows Top images for Cell research and need companions 2012 revealed celebrity sheep New from GarlandNew from Science Garland ScienceScience Phylogenomics: A Primer is for advanced Phylogenomics:undergraduate A and Primer graduate is for biologyadvanced Phylogenomics:studentsundergraduate studying A Primerand molecular graduate is for advanced biology,biology undergraduate and graduate biology comparativestudents studyingbiology, evolution, molecular biology,genomics, and students studying molecular biology, comparativebiodiversity. Itbiology, explores evolution, the origins genomics, of organic and comparative biology, evolution, genomics, and biodiversity.life on It the explores planet, the examines origins theof organic biodiversity.life on It theexplores planet, the examines origins of the organic use oflife scientific on the planet, databases examines to understand the the use of scientific databases to understand the usefunction of scientific of proteins databases within to organisms,understand andthe function of proteins within organisms, and functionprovides ofinsight proteins into withinthe interpretation organisms, and of provides insight into the interpretation of linearprovides sequence insight intoinformation the interpretation in the context of oflinearlinear organismal sequencesequence change. information information This book in in the explainsthe context context the essentialof organismalorganismal concepts change. change. underlying This This book book the explains explains storage the the and essentialmanipulation conceptsconcepts underlyingofunderlying genomics the the level storage storage data, and and manipulationmanipulationconstruction ofofof genomics genomicsphylogenetic level level data, trees,data, populationconstructionconstruction genetics, ofof phylogeneticphylogenetic natural selection, trees, trees, the populationpopulationtree of genetics, life,genetics, DNA barcoding,natural natural selection, selection, and the the treemetagenomics.tree of of life, life, DNA DNA barcoding,The barcoding, inclusion and and of problem-solvingmetagenomics.metagenomics. exercises The The inclusion inclusion in each of chapter of providesproblem-solvingproblem-solving students exercises exercises with a solidin in each each grasp chapter chapter of the providesprovidesimportant students students molecular with with a and asolid solid evolutionary grasp grasp of of the the questionsimportantimportant facing molecular molecular modern and and biologists evolutionary evolutionary as well as questionsthe tools facingfacing needed modernmodern to biologistsanswerbiologists them. as aswell well as as thethe tools tools needed needed to to answer answer them. them.

December 2012 • 352 Pages •160 Illustrations December 2012 • 352 Pages •160 Illustrations DecemberPaperback 2012 • •9780815342113 352 Pages •160 • Illustrations £38.00 PaperbackPaperback • • 9780815342113 9780815342113 • •£38.00 £38.00

CONTENTS:CONTENTS: 1.CONTENTS: Why Phylogenomics Matters 2. The Biology of Linear Molecules (DNA and Proteins) 3. Evolutionary 1. 1.Why Why Phylogenomics Phylogenomics Matters Matters 2. 2. The The Biology Biology ofof LinearLinear Molecules (DNA(DNA and and Proteins) Proteins) 3. 3. Evolutionary Evolutionary PrinciplesPrinciples – Populations– Populations and and Trees Trees 4.4. Databases Databases 5.5. HomologyHomology andand PairwisePairwise Alignment Alignment 6. 6. Multiple Multiple Alignments Alignments Principles – Populations and Trees 4. Databases 5. Homology and Pairwise Alignment 6. Multiple Alignments andand Constructing Constructing Phylogenomic Phylogenomic MatricesMatrices7. 7. GenomeGenome SequencingSequencing andand AnnotationAnnotation 8. 8. Tree Tree Building Building and Constructing Phylogenomic Matrices7. Genome Sequencing and Annotation 8. Tree Building 9. 9.Robustness Robustness and and Rate Rate Heterogeneity Heterogeneity in in Phylogenomics Phylogenomics 10. BayesianBayesian Analysis Analysis 11. 11. Incongruence Incongruence 12. 12. Adapting Adapting Population9. PopulationRobustness Genetics andGenetics Rate to Heterogeneityto Genomics Genomics 13. 13. Detecting Detectingin Phylogenomics NaturalNatural Selection10. Bayesian inin GenomesAnalysisGenomes –11. – PartPart Incongruence 1 14. 1 14. Detecting Detecting 12. Natural AdaptingNatural SelectionPopulationSelection in in GeneticsGenomes Genomes to– – Part GenomicsPart 215. 215. 13.Advanced Advanced Detecting PopulationPopulation Natural SelectionGenetics TopicsinTopics Genomes 16. 16. Genome Genome – Part Content Content 1 14. Detecting Analysis Analysis 17.Natural 17. A A PhylogenomicSelectionPhylogenomic in Genomes Perspective Perspective – Part of of 2 15.BiologicalBiological Advanced Diversity:Diversity: Population TreeTree of GeneticsLife, DNADNA BarcodingTopicsBarcoding 16. Genome andand MetagenomicsMetagenomics Content Analysis 17. A 18.Phylogenomic18. Microarrays Microarrays Perspective in in Evolutionary Evolutionary of Biological StudiesStudies andDiversity:and FunctionalFunctional Tree of PhylogenomicsLife, DNA Barcoding and Metagenomics 18. Microarrays in Evolutionary Studies and Functional Phylogenomics ONLINEONLINE RESOURCES RESOURCES ONLINE RESOURCES ResourcesResources for for Qualifying Qualifying Instructors Instructors ResourcesArtworkArtwork for Qualifying Instructors ImagesArtworkImages from from the the book book available available in in JPEG JPEG and and PowerPoint®PowerPoint® formats. Images from the book available in JPEG and PowerPoint® formats. LinksLinks LinksLinks to to exercises, exercises, algorithms, algorithms, annotated annotated data data sets,sets, andand biological databases.databases. Links to exercises, algorithms, annotated data sets, and biological databases.

www.garlandscience.com/phylogenomicswww.garlandscience.com/phylogenomics www.garlandscience.com/phylogenomics

Untitled-1.indd 1 9/24/2012 10:18:07 AM Untitled-1.indd 1 9/24/2012 10:18:07 AM Untitled-1.indd 1 9/24/2012 10:18:07 AM New from Garland Science

Phylogenomics: A Primer is for advanced undergraduate and graduate biology students studying molecular biology, comparative biology, evolution, genomics, and biodiversity. It explores the origins of organic life on the planet, examines the use of scientific databases to understand the function of proteins within organisms, and provides insight into the interpretation of linear sequence information in the context of organismal change. This book explains the essential concepts underlying the storage and manipulation of genomics level data, construction of phylogenetic trees, population genetics, natural selection, the tree of life, DNA barcoding, and metagenomics. The inclusion of problem-solving exercises in each chapter provides students with a solid grasp of the important molecular and evolutionary questions facing modern biologists as well as the tools needed to answer them.

December 2012 • 352 Pages •160 Illustrations Paperback • 9780815342113 • £38.00

CONTENTS: 1. Why Phylogenomics Matters 2. The Biology of Linear Molecules (DNA and Proteins) 3. Evolutionary Principles – Populations and Trees 4. Databases 5. Homology and Pairwise Alignment 6. Multiple Alignments and Constructing Phylogenomic Matrices7. Genome Sequencing and Annotation 8. Tree Building 9. Robustness and Rate Heterogeneity in Phylogenomics 10. Bayesian Analysis 11. Incongruence 12. Adapting Population Genetics to Genomics 13. Detecting Natural Selection in Genomes – Part 1 14. Detecting Natural Selection in Genomes – Part 215. Advanced Population Genetics Topics 16. Genome Content Analysis 17. A Phylogenomic Perspective of Biological Diversity: Tree of Life, DNA Barcoding and Metagenomics 18. Microarrays in Evolutionary Studies and Functional Phylogenomics

ONLINE RESOURCES Resources for Qualifying Instructors Artwork Images from the book available in JPEG and PowerPoint® formats. Links Links to exercises, algorithms, annotated data sets, and biological databases.

www.garlandscience.com/phylogenomics

Untitled-1.indd 1 9/24/2012 10:18:07 AM TheBiologist The SOCIeTY OF BIOLOGY MAGAZINe

Volume 59 No 4 / October 2012

contents 14 18

31

in thiS iSSUe

14 Adam and the ants sheep, the world’s first cloned

ThThe socieTy of biology magazinee ■ issn 0006-3347Biologist ■ socieTyofbiology.org Vol 59 no 4 ■ ocTober 2012 news To coincide with the results of mammal, talks to Tom Ireland our UK-wide flying ant survey, about the project that defined 4 society news entomologist Professor Adam his career and how embryology 47 member news Hart reveals the awesome has advanced since then. 50 branch events social behaviour of one of WoRKeRS, DRoneS 52 branch news the UK’s most common 31 Under pressure & QUeenS UK ants up close and the results of our fl ying ant survey

and important insects. Stafford Lightman and colleagues AnimAL WeLFARe photo competition emBRYoLoGY FRieSiAn FRienDS Science in FocUS iAn WiLmUt Why dairy cows Top images for Cell research and explore the positive and negative need companions 2012 revealed celebrity sheep Regulars 18 Farmyard friends effects of childhood stress, The need for companionship in and whether it has any lasting 3 nelson’s column dairy cattle is crucial for their consequences for adult health. 8 biofeedback health yet often overlooked, 10 opinion argues Krista McLennan. 36 photo competition 28 12 Policy update We unveil the 12 24 Spiders of the caribbean remarkable images 40 spotlight Jo-Anne Nina Sewlal discusses shortlisted in 42 reviews the importance of studying our ‘How 55 crossword arachnids in Trinidad. Biology Can 56 final Word Save The 28 Sir ian Wilmut World’ The man who created Dolly the competition.

Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 1 The BIOLOGIST Vol 59 No 4 • October 12 contacts eDitoRiAL BoARD StAFF AnD contAct DetAiLS editor chief executive Sue Nelson Dr Mark Downs FSB Society of Biology Assistant editor Jennifer Crosk, PA to Mark Downs charles Darwin house, Tom Ireland MSB [email protected] 12 Roger Street, [email protected] memBeRShip, mARKetinG & London Wc1n 2JU commUnicAtionS Tel: 020 7685 2550 Fax: 020 3514 3204 members For membership enquiries, call 0844 858 9316 [email protected] [email protected] J Ian Blenkharn MSB FRSPh Director of membership, marketing www.societyofbiology.org Phil Collier MSc PhD CBiol FSB FLS Fhe & communications Views expressed in this magazine are Cameron S Crook BSc MPhil CBiol MSB MIeeM FLS Jon Kudlick marketing manager not necessarily those of the editorial Rajith Dissanayake MSc PhD FZS AMSB Mark Leach Board or the Society of Biology. Catherine Duigan BSc PhD FSB FLS public engagement and events executive John heritage BA DPhil CBiol FSB Dr Jenna Stevens-Smith MSB © 2012 Society of Biology marketing Assistant (Registered charity no. 277981) Sue howarth BSc PhD CBiol FSB Zoë Martin AMSB Allan Jamieson BSc PhD CBiol FSB press officer The Society permits single copying Catherine Jopling BSc PhD MSB Dr Rebecca Nesbit MSB of individual articles for private study Susan Omar BSc PGCe CBiol MSB MRSPh FRGS editorial Assistant or research, irrespective of where Karen Patel AMSB the copying is done. Multiple copying Leslie Rose BSc CBiol FSB FICR MAPM of individual articles for teaching eDUcAtion AnD tRAininG purposes is also permitted without [email protected] specific permission. For copying or Advisory panel head of education reproduction or any other purpose, Ian Clarke, horticulture Research International, UK Rachel Lambert-Forsyth CBiol MSB written permission must be sought from higher education policy officer Clive Cornford, Unitec, Auckland, New Zealand the Society. exceptions to the above are Dr eva Sharpe MSB Sharon Grimster, BioPark, UK competitions co-ordinator those institutions and non-publishing Alan Lansdown, Imperial College London, UK Dr Amanda hardy organisations that have an agreement or Walter Leal Filho, Qualifications and Skills officer licence with the UK Copyright Licensing hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Germany Natasha Neill AMSB Agency or the US Copyright Clearance Centre. Access to the magazine is Marios Kyriazis, Science poLicY available online; please see the Society’s Biogerontologist and anti-ageing physician, UK [email protected] website for futher details. Don McManus, Bancroft Centre, Australia head of Science policy Peter Moore, Kings’ College London, UK Dr Laura Bellingan FSB The Biologist is produced on behalf Senior Science policy Advisers Brian Osborne, Australia of the Society of Biology by Dr Barbara Knowles FSB Think Publishing Ltd. John Scott, University of Leicester, UK Dr Caroline Wallace MSB 124-128 Barlby Road Robert Spooner-hart, University of Science policy officer London W10 6BL Western Sydney, Australia Jackie Caine MSB www.thinkpublishing.co.uk project officer(Natural Capital Initiative) Kathleen Weathers, Institute of 020 8962 3020 Anita Sedgewick ecosystem Studies, USA UK plant Sciences Federation executive officer Design Steve Wilson, Pfizer Animal health Dr Mimi Tanimoto MSB Alistair McGown Director of parliamentary Affairs Sub editor Stephen Benn Sian Campbell A WinDoW on the LiFe ScienceS publisher The Biologist si a bi-monthly magazine Financial Administrator John Innes (published six times per year) that carries Surinder Sohal [email protected] the full richness and diversity of biology. [email protected] Science is brought to life with stimulating and pRoFeSSionAL ReGiSteRS Non-member rates: £116.00 authoritative features, while topical pieces professional Registers manager discuss science policy, new developments Dr Cliff Collis CBiol FSB ISSN 0006-3347 or controversial issues. Aimed at biologists [email protected] everywhere, its straightforward style makes professional Registers officer Advertising in The Biologist represents it ideal for educators and students at all Joanne Needham an unparalleled opportunity to reach levels, as well as the interested amateur. a large community of professional Submissions of interesting and timely articles, european countries Biologists Association (ecBA) biologists. short opinion pieces and letters are welcome. Representative Articles should be aimed at a non-specialist Dr Tony Allen CBiol FSB For advertising information contact audience and convey your enthusiasm [email protected] Rosanna Chambers and expertise. Instructions for authors are ho Licensee Accreditation Board [email protected] available on the Society of Biology website Fraser Darling CBiol FSB 020 8962 3026 or on request from the editorial office. [email protected]

2 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 nelson’s column

y the time you receive this of the awe-inspiring behaviour of Considering Dolly’s fame, she lived a issue, the Society’s first ants in the UK. relatively stress-free life, but the same Biology Week will be in It seems appropriate as we celebrate doesn’t always apply to other farm full swing. Launched at Biology Week that assistant editor animals. Animal welfare expert the Houses of Parliament, Tom Ireland interviews Professor Sir Krista McLennan has been examining Bevents range from dolphin science Ian Wilmut (page 28): the man whose the effect of stress in cows and, on workshops in schools and attempts at team made history by cloning the first page 18, she reveals the importance of the world’s largest memory game, to mammal from an adult cell. The cell in social relationships for both the well- late night opening at the Royal question was from the mammary being of the cow and its productivity. Veterinary College and a debate on gland of a sheep, which led to it being Most of us have also probably whether we need to save the panda named after the well-endowed country experienced stress at some stage in our (which I am chairing). Hopefully the and western star, Dolly Parton. lives. Sometimes it brings out the best events will encourage even more Dolly the sheep’s name was apt in in us, forcing us to perform better. By the people not only to study biology, but to more ways than one. Dolly became a Other times it can be debilitating. time you appreciate the diversity and range the celebrity in her own right and still is Professor Stafford Lightman and receive this subject has to offer. even after her death, with her remains colleagues from the University of issue, the In time for Biology Week the on display in the National Museum of Bristol present both the positive and Society’s results of the Society’s popular flying Scotland in Edinburgh, the city where the negative effects of stress in early life ant survey have been released. The Wilmut’s team was based. Wilmut and explore whether it has irreversible first Biology survey received lots of press attention shares his experience of Dollymania, consequences for adult health. Week will be when flying ants started to appear discusses the controversy surrounding This is, I hope, a suitably fitting in full swing in July, and, on page 14, entomologist his research and where it has led him and diverse issue of The Biologist for Professor Adam Hart discusses the since, as well as what the future holds the first of many Biology Weeks for survey’s findings and highlights some for cloning – human or otherwise. years to come.

sue nelson, editor

Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 3 James north from formby COMPETITION high school won Grants for a tour of the UPDATE centre for infectious biology Diseases at the roslin institute, Society news edinburgh. projects abroad he Society is offering five £500 First ever ttravelling fellowships to help Society celebrates fund travel in connection with biological study, teaching or research to those who would otherwise be unlikely to afford it. third birthday International collaboration is extremely valuable to the progression of scientific knowledge and understanding, as well as looking s Biology Week unfolds, the in full swing Big Bang winner’s lab trip impressive on a science CV. Previous Society is also celebrating its projects of past recipients of the A third birthday this month. s The Biologist goes to press, he winner of the Society’s ‘Best incredible for me as the man who award include: ecosystem modelling Formed in October 2009 from the Society’s inaugural Bioscience’ award at this year’s knows it best taught me some of the in Stockholm; species sampling in a merger between the Institute ABiology Week is well tBig Bang Fair has described higher functions of the programme. The whole the Arctic; and investigating the of Biology and the Biosciences underway, with events around the his prize – a trip to meet researchers “The whole experience was experience effects of genetic research on lung Federation, it now has almost 12,000 country celebrating the richness and at the Roslin Institute – as “surreal” utterly incredible for me and all was utterly cancer in New York. Pictured below members including 2,000 Fellows. diversity of the life sciences. and “incredible”. the staff seemed really interested is undergraduate Peter Coals who Chief executive Mark Downs said Events include a parliamentary James North from Formby not only in their own work, but incredible last year won a fellowship to research the formation of the Society had reception, a panel debate on High School won with a project in explaining their research and for me giant shrews in Mozambique. been a “real operational challenge” conservation entitled ‘Do we need on the genetics of HIV positive encouraging me to have a go If you are interested in applying but represented a huge opportunity pandas? Choosing which species macrophages. The award is open to at lab work and in helping me for a Society of Biology fellowship, to increase the profile of biology. to save’, a world record attempt 11-18 year olds and accepted projects to understand its purpose. The all you need to do is submit your “Bringing together two for the largest ever memory game, from all areas of science, technology, experience has confirmed my desire CV and a 500 word statement organisations with different late night opening at the Royal engineering and maths. to carry out research at some point on what your fellowship will be cultures and stretched resources Veterinary College, as well James enjoyed a behind-the-scenes in my future.” put towards by the 31st October inevitably creates uncertainty. But as various lectures, museum visits tour with Professor Peter Simmonds’ deadline. Full details are available with wide support from the sector and guided walks organised by our Virology Research Group in the at www.societyofbiology.org/ and a lot of internal and external local branches. Centre for Infectious Diseases at the travellingfellowship collaboration, there has been a The shortlist from our Roslin Institute, Edinburgh, in June, great deal to celebrate.” photography competition is revealed “To go from sitting my A-level on page 36 and the winners will biology exam to carrying out the major growth membership and special interest be announced at our Science techniques I had been answering By relocating to Charles Darwin groups,” said Dr Downs. Communication Awards in London questions on just the week before House in February 2011 to join other “Plant science now has dedicated There has during Biology Week. was a truly surreal experience,” said biology-focused organisations, the resources, competitions for school been a great The results of our flying ant James. “PCR and gel electrophoresis Society has reduced costs and grown children have seen a 50% growth, survey, which attracted attention were concepts that I was aware of turnover by 30% while more than with over 30,000 participating and deal to from national radio and newspapers but I hadn’t thought I would be in a doubling staff numbers to 29. many new membership benefits, celebrate when the position to carry them out for a The Society has also seen such as grants for travelling, training critters long time.” “major growth in organisational and networking opportunities.” emerged in July and incredible experience August, are As well as being shown various lab a Ucl scan Society to ‘borrow’ mRi scanner revealed on techniques, James was shown how of half page 17. the different researchers come a bee. As part of Biology Week, University College London’s together to function as one team. check out Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging has allowed the “In a lab meeting I was sitting www.societyofbiology.org/ Society to conduct £1,000 worth of scanning time in its in on, I happened to mention newsandevents/news small high-resolution MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) that my Nuffield Project used for all the latest news of the scanner. Over the summer the Society was invited to BioLayout 3D, an open source society’s own activities submit ideas of interesting objects or experiments under analysis programme,” James said. plus bioscience stories 3cm in diameter (and containing plenty of water) to scan. “Within 10 minutes I was talking to from around the Details of what we discovered from the best five ideas will Professor Tom Freeman, the leader world be revealed in the next issue of The Biologist. of the BioLayout project, which was

4 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 5 SOCIeTY NeWS BIOLOGY OLYMPIAD WINNeRS IN SINGAPORe/IN The PReSS/CITY COUNCIL APPOINTS ADVISeR

It’s been a fantastic summer for press coverage of the NEWS IN BRIEF British Biology Olympiad IN THE PRESS Society’s activities. Here are COMPETITION some of the highlights: UPDATE winners’ trip to Singapore pRint.

our students were chosen to represent the UK at Cleared for take-off: it’s the day of the Fthe International Biology Brits enjoy year’s hottest day flying ants Olympiad (IBO) in Singapore …The sudden heat is predicted to unleash Southampton city following their success at the British …This year the Society of Biology is running one of the British summer’s other great council appoints chief Biology Olympiad (BBO). They a survey to learn more about the spectacle spectacles – flying ant day… Dr Adam scientific adviser describe their experiences below. of flying ant day, relying on lots of people Hart, an ecologist and insect expert at the The BBO had a record year with reporting their sightings. University of Gloucestershire, is working ociety chief executive almost 4,000 sixth form students with the Society of Biology on the survey. Dr Mark Downs has from the UK (and British Schools Swelcomed a move by abroad) taking the first round Southampton City Council to paper. Gold medallists were invited appoint its own chief scientific to take a second, more demanding RADio. adviser, the first council to do so. paper, in order to choose 16 finalists The council has appointed who undertook more challenging Professor AbuBakr Bahaj (pictured assessments at the University of Summer arrives ... and so does flying right), professor of sustainable Birmingham’s School of Biosciences. ant day! But before you run back energy at the University of indoors, experts urge you to help Southampton, to champion count the swarms. The Today Programme; science and engineering in the Forget Flying Ant Day ... it’s actually also aired on Radio Five, BBC Sheffield, local economy, a move that Dr a month! 4,000 people join ‘citizen Tees, Gloucestershire, Jersey, Cardiff, Downs believes will help ensure survey’ to pin-point outbreaks across Ulster and Shropshire and LBC Radio. local policy makers make the best the UK. use of scientific advances in all With ‘Flying Ant Day underway’, the The Society of Biology asked members of their decisions. Society’s chief executive Mark Downs “It is fantastic to see the public to cover their mouths and keep a talked about the phenomenon on the Today record each time they saw the pesky insects Southampton City Council use programme. Our press officer, Rebecca local expertise to ensure that their take to the air in their annual battle to find Nesbit, and Professor Adam Hart also spoke a mate. policies are guided by evidence,” “I can vividly remember hearing “On the Tuesday and Thursday of the IBO we on other local radio stations to explain what Dr Downs said. Record numbers my name as the team was sat the practical and theory tasks and spent the nationwide survey aimed to achieve. Meanwhile 29,000 pupils took announced at the BBO finals, much of the rest of the week on visits to part in the Biology Challenge, wondering if after a tiring the Jurong Bird Park, Underwater World onLine. UK Biology another record number which couple of days I had fallen and sections of the universities and brings participation to almost asleep and dreamt it. I think it was technology parks. Nature competitions seeks 100,000 since it started in 2008. only really at the awards ceremony that it began “These provided a welcome opportunity to UK’s flying ant swarms are counted new committee The competition is open to year 9/10 to sink in that I would be representing my country, relax and socialise between the gruelling exams …Scientists are attempting to count the The Golden Age of Cannabis members pupils in England and Wales (Year having just enjoyed informative training sessions themselves. In the practicals, number of places flying ants appear in the …In a recent issue of The Biologist – the 10/11 in Northern Ireland and S2/S3 at Kew Gardens and the Natural history Museum, the time pressure was unlike UK, as they swarm across the country during Society of Biology’s magazine – Dr David Potter he Society of Biology’s in Scotland). instead of celebrating the end of my A levels.” anything I’d ever experienced mating flights. discussed how cannabis could be bred to special interest group, UK Winners of both the British Robert Starley, Reading School before, perhaps with the provide the raw starting material for a medicine tBiology Competitions, is Biology Olympiad and Biology exception of final training.” to treat metabolic disorders. now offering experienced and Challenge were celebrated at an “Arriving on the 8th July at Freddie Dyke, RGS Guildford Society of Biology offers professional knowledgeable biology teachers awards ceremony held at the Royal the National University of recognition and development the opportunity to be involved in Society, hosted by experimental Singapore accommodation …The Society of Biology has launched a new the development of two important psychologist Professor Bruce Hood. the sheer enormity of the “This year’s International professional register to support the development national biology competitions. event quickly became apparent, Biology Olympiad in of biologists. This will give successful applicants Silver medallists with 234 students from 59 Singapore was an Gene Doping: The Next Frontier in the chance to help the thriving Congratulations to Freddie, Josh, different countries competing. Getting to know unforgettable, inspiring Performance Enhancement? Biology Challenge and British Ollie and Robert for winning silver in the other teams (Australia, New Zealand, USA and enjoyable experience. …Gene doping has been banned by the World Biology Olympiad competitions the IBO. Thanks and congratulations and UAe especially well) as well as our amazing From the start I was surprised Cannabis Catch All? Anti-Doping Agency since 2003, though there to continue their steady growth in also go to the volunteers who guide Langston Peh (who got us up on time and by the importance placed on the competition …“As rigorous modern research with is currently no evidence that it has been student and school participation. devoted much time and energy to generally kept everything running smoothly, a key by many nations, with the President of cannabinoids comes to fruition, a new era attempted. An article in the June issue of The For details please contact the competitions – in particular task when days were packed to bursting point) Singapore attending the opening ceremony of treatment options may have arrived,” Biologist, discusses the potential threat of gene Dr Andrew Treharne, Chair Dr Bill Burnett, Neil Richards and gave the competition a surprisingly social edge, and the results being published in the said David Potter, who wrote about the GW doping and the challenges of detecting it. of the UKBC Committee. David Rigby, who set the BBO theory resulting in numerous friendships.” national newspaper.” Pharmaceuticals’ efforts in The Biologist. andrewtreharne@ papers, helped train the team and Oliver Adams, Peter Symonds College Joshua Hodgson, Godalming College biology-olympiad.org.uk accompanied them to Singapore.

6 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 7 LeTTeRS eXOTIC PeTS/BACK TO SChOOL/SILeNT SPRING

ThThe socieTy of biology magazinee ■ issn 0006-3347Biologist ■ socieTyofbiology.org Vol 59 no 3 ■ aUgUsT 2012 A BUG'S LiFe inteRVieW TV entomologist Dr George McGavin shares his passion for insects Biofeedback

conSeRVAtion nAtURe meDicine pet hAte BiRDS ALoUD BReAthe eASY e resurgence of How animals became e biology of the exotic pet trade recording stars treating asthma Letters, news and views from our readers

Send your EXOTIC EXPOSé about through irresponsible neurological abnormalities and lead envious. I retired in 1995 and all shared the same birthday but comments to biofeedback, As a veterinary surgeon involved in selective breeding. to reduced locomotory control. fields of science have moved a long saddened to learn that she died in society of biology, public health and animal welfare Until now, work to increase If prevention is the best cure, way since then. There are so many 1964 at the age of 56; as this was charles Darwin for 30 years, I would like to take awareness of genetic welfare there exists an opportunity to new things that I would like to see new information to me I can only house, 12 roger this opportunity to sincerely problems has rightly been focused combat the issues now seen in dogs now. Thanks to The Biologist, I do guess that it was not widely street, london congratulate The Biologist for on those species most commonly and cats before they develop in get a peek at many of them. I thank reported at the time. Wc1n 2JU or email publishing an important and timely kept, and which have historically reptiles. Priorities are to establish the Society for that. The opportunity of a 100 year birth biologist@ exposé on the issue of exotic pets in been subject to the most selective criteria for the objective assessment David Potter msb anniversary commemoration has societyofbiology.org your latest journal (The Biologist, breeding, like cats and dogs. of welfare in reptiles (the small passed; I could not see any reference Vol 59 (3) 14-18). However, the past decade has behavioural repertoire of reptiles SILENT SPRING to it in The Biologist in 2007. The Biologist andre menache seen the establishment of a growing makes this problematic); determine I was pleased to see in the article However, there are still two years to reserves the right to edit letters trade in so-called ‘designer morphs’ the welfare impacts of known ‘Wild Tracks’ (The Biologist, Vol 59 go before the 50th anniversary of her where appropriate. I wanted to congratulate you on the of captive bred reptiles. These are genetic conditions in reptiles, and (3) 30) the opening quotation from death, 50 years in which publication of the article ‘Pet hate’ obtained through the selective increase awareness of these among Silent Spring. Does this represent environmental consciousness has in your last edition. As a regular breeding of rare but naturally keepers; and increase participation some degree of reassessment of been awakened. A balanced review of reader I found it encouraging to occurring phenotypes (or ‘base by the reptile breeder community in Rachel Carson today? I well her life and her influence over these hear that there is pressure to tackle morphs’) such as albinism or responsible breeding practices. remember as an undergraduate years would be very appropriate. the exotic pet trade and its melanism, and we are now seeing the mark rose cbiol msb study organisms outside of their editor sue applied biologist being advised not spencer needs fsb attendant problems. emergence of unwanted side effects. natural habitats. Are the animals in nelson’s trip back to bother reading it at the time of to the biology Dr martin ashby Examples include ‘Wobble Editor’s response: No sooner said the various zoological societies classroom made publication. To my shame it was Editor’s response: Rachel Carson’s Syndrome’, associated with the than done. See page 11. throughout the world ‘pets’? It could one reader quite over 40 years before I finally got a Silent Spring has definitely In their article, Toland, Warwick Spider morph in royal pythons be argued that interest in captive envious. copy and read it, along with her undergone a positive reassessment and Arena looked at the welfare (Python regius), and ‘Enigma PET PEEVES animals fuels interest in the book The Sea Around Us. A brief since her death and, more recently, impacts of the private trade in Syndrome’, associated with the Toland, Warwick and Arena (The conservation of many organisms. internet search reveals her true worth has been finding a new audience exotic reptiles. An emerging welfare Enigma morph in leopard geckos Biologist, Vol 59 (3) 14-18) propose a David armitage cbiol msb in kickstarting much of the modern during the 50th anniversary of its concern, which was not discussed, (Eublepharis macularius). Both ban on import of exotic animals, anabantoid association of environmental movement, albeit publication. A review of her life is is that of genetic disorders brought conditions appear to be caused by arguing this will improve great britain perhaps by shock tactics. a great idea for a future edition of conservation, public health and I was pleased to learn that we The Biologist. Thank you. alien invasion as well as animal Editor’s response: I happened to welfare. As this was such an read your letter stating “only very unbalanced article with weighted rarely has collecting affected wild evidence, I think you need to invite populations significantly” while an informed argument stating the in the United States. University of benefits and examining some of the Florida researchers had just found biased figures presented in this ill- a record 87 eggs inside the carcass

considered paper. of a pregnant Burmese python http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/ Only very rarely has collecting in the Everglades. The university affected wild populations stated that Florida has the world’s significantly. Time and time again, worst problem with invasive it has been proven that loss of reptiles and amphibians and quoted habitat is the crucial influence. In a 2011 journal study. It found my small area of knowledge, the that 137 non-native species were collection of tropical fish provides introduced to Florida between 1863 employment to local people and and 2010 and pythons are currently thus gives value to the animals and wiping out mammals in the area. also the preservation of their The pet trade was determined to be habitats. Were this to be the number one cause. The 50th prohibited, the value of the habitats anniversary of would decline and interests in the TOP MARKS rachel carson’s habitats would cease. I’d like to congratulate squeamish Silent Spring, The constant derogatory Sue Nelson on her brave re-visit to published in 1962, reference to ‘pets’ is in itself an the world of biology. Reading her might be time to reassess its place inappropriate term bearing in mind excellent and enthusiastic article, in galvanising the the interest and dedication shown ‘Going back to school’ (The environmental by many hobbyists who breed and Biologist, Vol 59 (3) 8-9), I felt quite movement.

8 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 9 OPINION USING BeeS IN AFRICAN FARMING/GeNeTIC BReeDING ISSUeS IN PeTS

conformations of bulldogs, pugs, Persian cats, pekingeses, dachshunds and basset hounds (to list a few) are so familiar to us that perhaps we take them for granted and assume the problems associated with them are unavoidable or acceptable. Tackling The Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW) recently reviewed the progress of various organisations in tackling genetic 2 these problems in dogs , including the recently-formed Advisory Council on the Welfare Issues of Dog problems Breeding, the Kennel Club, the British Veterinary Association and other welfare charities. APGAW emphasised in pets that awareness and education about these genetic problems is a key part of James Kirkwood says tackling the issues. BEES vs ELEPHANTS animal lovers can now Awareness and understanding make an informed To help address this, the Universities John Home says biology An elephant Spiteful bees Federation for Animal Welfare never forgets The bees need a few days to settle choice when choosing (UFAW) is developing a website to can find solutions to the For the last five down after elephant disturbance pets to discourage provide information on the genetic biggest problems - like years, British before normal beekeeping activities diseases of companion animals and biologist Dr Lucy can be resumed. From my experience breeding for genetic their effects on welfare. The aim is to stopping a six-tonne King has been over the last six years visiting projects disease explain the clinical and pathological African elephant in working on ways as a volunteer with Bees Abroad, effects and the reasons for inferring bees can be used I know just how spiteful the indigenous ost breeds of dogs were Internally this results in blocked that they cause pain or discomfort. its tracks to protect farms bees can be when handled badly and established long before airways and externally it predisposes The website already includes in Kenya from how determined they are to follow m veterinary science developed. the dog to skin and eye diseases. The descriptions of a wide range of lephants can be destructive. elephants. She found that elephants the offender until they have inflicted Bulldogs and other short-muzzled pug’s curled tail is another example: genetic welfare problems of dogs, Kenyan top-bar They have been known to kill hives are hung on did not feed on trees with hives of their sting. (brachycephalic) breeds, for example, its twist is the result of selection for cats, rabbits, and other companion epeople and are considered a wires underneath African honeybees and will run from The local language is Swahili, were selected for this trait long before developmental abnormalities of the animal species, but many more serious threat to farmers and thatch to protect digital playback of recordings of the which I have not mastered, so I found there was any understanding of the tail bones. These abnormalities can conditions are still to be added. landowners in Africa. It is therefore them from the insects. The elephants are afraid of it hard, even with an interpreter, to associated pathology. also affect vertebral bones in the chest One of the constraints to progress urgent to find ways of dealing with strong sun. being attacked and, once stung, find out how dangerous it is for local It is only quite recently that the and back causing serious and painful in tackling these problems is the the issue without killing elephants. remember it forever. people and tethered farm animals genetic diseases of companion spinal disease. importance that some attach to the In Kenya, as in other developing Dr King developed a solution: to when the bees are upset. Yet the animals have begun to be studied Secondly, diseases can arise concept of breed purity. To pets, African and Asian countries, the place hives of bees, at intervals of outcome seems to be that the and perhaps more recently still that through harmful chance genetic breed purity does not matter as much main problem is a growing population approximately 10 metres, along the elephants eventually choose a new the effects on their quality of life has mutations. Although unrelated to the as pain does. and the pressing need for land to grow thick hedges. Any gaps in the ‘bee route, avoiding farms that have bees received attention. traits selected for, they are propagated It is hoped that greater awareness crops and manage livestock to fence’ are vulnerable to letting through to guard them. In a report on breeding and welfare by inbreeding. Many dalmatians have and understanding of the welfare provide a livelihood. Unfortunately, elephants, so on the boundary of the The United Nations Environment in 20061, the Companion Animal a metabolic abnormality due to such effects of these conditions will the spread of Shambas (small farms) farm with no hedge a row of Kenyan Programme1 recently gave Dr King an Welfare Council (CAWC) noted that a genetic mutation, resulting in high influence choice of pet and that is often onto land located on the top-bar hives were suspended award for her research that led to the despite society’s concern over the use levels of uric acid in the urine. The demand for breeds, strains or traditional migratory routes of independently on wires (see photo bee fence, which could be used in many of animals in scientific procedures, uric acid tends to crystallise, and if individuals whose welfare is at risk elephants, routes which are above) so they could swing under other countries with large elephant “an almost unquestioning acceptance the urethra becomes blocked the will decline. The majority of these implanted in their memory. thatch, keeping them cool in the strong populations and expanding continues to prevail regarding the animal cannot urinate. problems could be solved (or at least On a recent trip to Kenya to carry African sun. agricultural land. selection and breeding of companion James Kirkwood made much rarer) quite quickly by out project work for the charity Bees There was also a wire strung Dr King has helped prove once again animals for arbitrary traits, despite Severe pain fsb is chief not breeding from affected animals or executive and Abroad, I visited Mafield Gichuki, a John home is between each of the hives about one that where there is a problem, biology the great potential for very serious There are many of both these types lines, or by crossing with unaffected scientific director farmer and beekeeper. Bees Abroad chairman and metre off the ground. When the is a great place to look for the answer. welfare consequences.” of genetic disease in dogs and other animals of other breeds. of the Universities promotes beekeeping as a farming project leader of elephants hit the wire the disturbance species of companion animals such federation for the UK charity enterprise that can help to relieve causes the bees to come out to defend for more information on Genetic mutations as cats, rabbits, pigeons and goldfish. animal Welfare. more information on genetic disease poverty through honey production bees abroad. the hives. The elephants flee when bees abroad and their work visit Genetic diseases can arise in two ways. They can seriously affect welfare and can be found at www.ufaw.org.uk/ and improve crop quality and yield they hear the sound made by the angry www.beesabroad.org.uk First, the trait selected for may cause can cause severe pain for much of the geneticwelfareproblems.php through pollination. attacking bees and as they do so they or be a disease. This is the case, for animals’ lives. Some are common and Mafield’s thick prickly hedges, and emit a distinctive communicating ReFeRence 1. UNeP (2011). United Nations example, with brachycephaly. Here, occur in large numbers of animals, and 1. Breeding and welfare in companion animals, environment Programme Press Release, The Companion Animal Welfare Council I mean thick, do not stop elephants. noise to warn other elephants of the Bergen 21 November 2011. UNeP Awards the bones of the muzzle are shortened all affect generation after generation. (CAWC). www.cawc.org.uk/sites/default/ Recently, an elephant entering the danger. Elephants apparently are elephant Researcher for Bee Solution to but the soft tissues of the face and It is surprising that these problems files/CAWCModifications.pdf farm quickly devoured crops that vulnerable to being stung on the human-Animal Conflict. www.unep.org/ within the nose and mouth are not persist given the generally high level 2. A review of recent initiatives by the Documents.Multilingual/Default.asp?Docum Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal would have supplied the family with delicate end of the trunk and possibly entID=2659&ArticleID=8953&l=en&t=long. reduced in size correspondingly, so of concern for animal welfare among Welfare, 2012. www.apgaw.org/reports-and- food for many months. inside their big ears. Accessed 19/08/2012. the excess tissues fold and protrude. the general public. The strange publications/pedigree-dog-report-2012

10 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 11 Consulting on… consultations

Government involving science. We draw on the report views from across the sector. expertise and experience of our We are asking for greater openness policy update proposals could make membership to collate consultation so that we know which areas of new We are it harder to gather asking for responses to advise Government on policy are already decided and which a range of issues. are genuinely open to influence. expert opinion in greater openness The Cabinet Office has recently We also would like to hear more on to the Treasury cheered policymaking announced a change in the guidance consultation outcomes, including the committee grilling him. so we know that Government departments why our recommendations have The House of Science What is important for many which areas and other public bodies use when been taken into account or not. Government-level decisions is ormal, written public of policy engaging stakeholders in policy We rely on the expertise of our knowing who to ask for advice consultations are most often are already making. These new ‘consultation members to make considered, and when, and to have systems in Fused when a policy topic is decided and principles’ aim to remove processes evidence-based recommendations place to facilitate this. reasonably broad and expected to which are that have become bureaucratic, to Government on a broad range In some ways the Lords draw a range of responses. They genuinely creating freedom to hear of life science issues. This could be themselves fulfil part of this role can be issued by Government open to stakeholder views in a quicker and anything from stem cell research by providing a ready and able departments or parliamentary select more targeted way. to agriculture policy, taxonomy and group already signed up to the task committees, and are time-bound influence One way they plan to do this is to translational research. Calls for of legislative improvement and exercises usually resulting in a report allow more flexibility in the standard views are circulated through our scrutiny, and in some cases a ‘home of recommendations or evidence. consultation period – the amount weekly Policy Newsletter and the team’ of confidantes for discussing Although not perfect, this public of time Government is required to Society of Biology website. Be sure to ideas in development. consultation structure allows anyone give stakeholders to respond to the make your voice count. They provide, like the Commons, a with an interest in the policy to inquiry. Under the proposed system, Science and Technology Committee contribute their views, and allows some consultation periods could ■ If you would like to engage with to scrutinise and highlight important the public to follow the policy feasibly last just two weeks rather the policymaking process, please developments in science and its process with a reasonable amount than the current 12-week minimum. sign up to our policy newsletter governance. All of these activities of openness and transparency. This The Society is writing to by emailing ‘subscribe’ to policy@ require a technical underpinning, is one of the major ways the Society Jackie caine msb Government to highlight how we and societyofbiology.org and by adding and the important issue for ensures the views of the biological science Policy our Member Organisations need an your areas of interest and expertise scientifically sound government community are represented in policy officer adequate time frame to collate and to your ‘My Society’ profile online. is the web of advice and support departments and parliamentary groups receive. investment from Government? Scientists in the civil service and The Treasury will be looking again in positions of responsibility with Making the at the contents of its coffers in the Don’t forget, Ensuring parliament receives good access to ministers are vital. coming months to set the science It is a good The set of departmental chief budget. The Society, like other there’s more sound scientific advice is crucial moment to scientific advisers is now complete, science bodies, will be making reflect on but it is far more than a one-person case for cash the case for investment in science in our Policy ow that reform of the House scientists among the directly-elected the many job and many hands are needed on and scientists as a valuable and of Lords has been abandoned MPs. What is clear from experience debates that and below deck. productive use of a chunk of the Newsletter nfor this parliament, it is and history is that in the course arose among national purse. a good moment to reflect on the of serving, many MPs embracing the scientific Underrepresented We always encourage evidence- all the latest science policy many debates that arose among portfolios thrust upon them – or in community I think that scientists have a great led decision-making, and economic news from across the UK and the scientific community while it pursuit of issues important to their while House deal to offer the nation, and I would matters are an important example. around the world is gathered was on the cards. They illuminated constituents – have developed an of Lords like to see an abundance of them We are gathering both big numbers together at our website the importance of having a robust appreciation and understanding reform was elected to both chambers; but this is and case studies to learn about www.societyofbiology.org/ cohort of scientists and supporters of science. on the cards not what the democratic process has the course of investment strategies, policy/policy-news of science in the second chamber, produced. Therefore the governance and to illustrate how individual and also the complexity of ensuring Who to ask? structures that ensure scientific projects have developed, be they or subscribe and receive the that this would still occur in a house The ability to appreciate and expertise is available remains of the good or bad. newsletter in email digest elected under a different system. interrogate evidence and exercise utmost importance. Understanding We would be delighted to hear form. Please email your Recognition of the importance due scepticism is taught in many of why scientists are generally from members with experience of contact details to of technology and science research the humanities disciplines whose underrepresented is another matter. project histories on the ground. [email protected] has seeded the Lords with good and graduates dominate parliament. So in this time of ‘no change’, oney. It makes the Development in science and biology informed science judgement. That It is quite a while since describing we will work to ensure that there centrifuges go round, and it in particular can take many years recognition comes not only from the Krebs Cycle or reciting the is change: Improvement of science m turns out you need it to keep and follow complex paths. We the Appointments Commission but Second Law of Thermodynamics advice and support structures the birds and the bees. Investing in would like you to let us know about also from political parties and their was a crucial on-the-spot ability wherever needed; and raising the science can earn big dividends in relatively recent development Dr laura selection of former members of the for parliamentarians, although a bellingan fsb profile of the advice and expertise terms of new products and services, examples to help fill out our picture Commons. It is said far too often working knowledge of the latter by head of available through learned societies but is it too much to hope that it of science in the red and in the black. that there are too few qualified the incoming chief science adviser science Policy like the Society of Biology. might buy science a little love and Dr laura bellingan fsb

12 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 13 INSeCT BehAVIOUR AN ANT’S LIFe

ADAm AnD the AntS To coincide with the results of the Society’s UK-wide flying ant survey, entomologist and science communicator Professor adam hart reveals the awesome social behaviour of one of the UK’s most common and important insects

or many biologists and non- BIOGRAPhY provide commercially valuable insight the fertilised female-destined eggs biologists alike, the childhood into human processes. in the colony as well as many of the Fthrill of turning over a paving Leaf-cutting, army and fire ants unfertilised male-destined eggs. slab and finding a seething mass might attract the most attention, but This reproductive division of labour of ants never really goes away. The UK ant species are just as interesting is the first crucial difference between popularity of films like A Bug’s Life and, crucially, are far more accessible human and ant societies. The second and Antz, ant farms, and ant exhibits – especially to younger biologists. is their social structure: the queen in museums and zoos is a sure sign is the mother of all the workers and that there is something in the toil Social life gynes, which means that ant societies and social cohesion of ants that adam hart is Ants – in common with all termites, have an inherent family structure continues to fascinate. Professor of some bees and wasps, and a few not present in modern, large-scale science Ecologically, by almost any communication at mammal species – are referred to human societies. yardstick we measure them against the University of as ‘eusocial’ or ‘truly’ social. This Ants are bound together not (geographical distribution, biome gloucestershire. definition is based on three criteria: just by the sharing of a common distribution, habitat distribution, he has a degree in reproductive division of labour nest space, but also by a common biomass, overall number, niche zoology from the (some individuals reproduce far genetic interest, since workers University of breadth, ecosystem connectivity...) cambridge and more than others); an overlap of are typically sisters or half-sisters, ants can be regarded as a major studied for his PhD generations (parent and offspring and the reproductive offspring the presence in, and important at the University of in the same place at the same colony produces are also siblings. component of, most terrestrial sheffield. he is a time); and cooperative brood care Kin selection, where genes shared by ecosystems. This success is fellow of the royal (individuals helping to raise offspring common descent can be passed on underpinned by their social lifestyle. entomological that are not their own). These through related individuals (thereby society and higher According to the Bible’s Proverbs education features produce societies that are enhancing so-called indirect fitness), 6:6, King Solomon exhorted us to go academy national very different to our own. gives us a mechanism that, in ants, to the ant, “consider her ways and be Teaching fellow. A typical ant colony consists of a leads to a high level of cooperation. wise”. Explicit in this is the concept single queen (though multiple queens Yet conflict can also be present in that ants, with their harmonious are not uncommon) and a group of ant colonies. Although we typically and well-organised societies, have female workers. At certain times of speak of workers being sterile, in something to teach us about ourselves. the year, winged males may also be many species workers retain the As we shall see, ant societies and present, as well as winged potential- ability to lay limited numbers of human societies have two crucial queens, or gynes, ready to emerge unfertilised eggs. The production differences that prevent us from for a nuptial flight and to start new of males, and the sex ratio of making any meaningful sociological colonies (see ‘Ants on the Wing’). reproductive individuals produced by comparisons between the two. Ants have a sex determination system the colony, can lead to outbursts of However, the organisation of ant based on ploidy, with males being conflict within the worker collective societies as a distributed system lefT: The common haploid and arising from unfertilised and between the queen and worker. (where no single individual is in black garden ant eggs, and females being diploid, However, to function as a colony, Lasius niger is charge) – capable of producing perhaps the UK’s emerging from fertilised eggs. cooperation must remain the effective, efficient and flexible most widely seen The queen will have mated with dominant force, at least for most of solutions to complex problems – can ant species. one or more males and she lays all the colony’s life.

14 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 15 INSeCT BehAVIOUR AN ANT’S LIFe

can then be presented with new level of approval which tips it from undertaken by older ants that will it home, laying down a second potential ‘homes’ with varying a state of scouting to one of moving. already have paid their dues working trail. Other ants coming across properties, including size, entrance Workers transport themselves, the inside the nest. Predation and pheromone trails tend to follow hole dimension, light levels, and so on. brood and the queen to the new nest parasitism are biotic risks that face them, and they have a greater By disturbing colonies in this way and site, rapidly establishing the colony any organism but, for central-place tendency to take paths that have a following the subsequent relocation, within its new home. This decision foragers like ants (they must return to higher concentration of pheromone it is possible to work out three making process has been termed a central location), getting lost is laid down. This means that ants important things: the properties that quorum sensing and it provides a a major problem. approaching a fork in the trail are are desirable to the ants; the way they rapid and robust mechanism to make Ants that live in smaller colonies, more likely to go down the branch measure those properties; and how a decision based on individuals that King hunt individual prey items, or live on with the stronger trail: in other the colony as a whole decides between are in possession of the most up-to- Solomon unstable substrates like sand must words, they are more likely to pick potential nest sites to pick the best. date and accurate information. exhorted us rely on landscapes, polarised light or the more reinforced and therefore Immediately after disturbance The mechanism is also highly to go to the Earth’s magnetic field to navigate, more rewarding path. the colony is in a certain amount of flexible, since the colony can adjust but many species find their way This provides a simple and robust disarray. But within a few minutes the numbers required for it to be the ant, chemically using trail pheromones. way for colonies to choose between ants begin to move out from the ‘quorate’ depending on the severity of “consider Watching the common black competing food sources. When a good disturbed nest to scout for a new nest the current conditions. For example, her ways garden ant Lasius niger as it travels food source is depleted, returning site. When a new location is found, the in an emergency they will go for any and be across paving slabs, picnic blankets ants simply stop laying down any scout ants enter the site and begin to vaguely suitable site based on the first wise” and kitchen floors is as good a way as more pheromone. Without a source appraise its potential. Where ants are small group of workers to ‘agree’. any to see the elegance of such trails. of pheromone to replace that lost presented with nest sites that differ However, should they already be in However, pheromone trail systems through evaporation, the trail only in one variable, experiments a perfectly good location, with no in ants do more than simply indicate diminishes, becoming progressively show consistently that floor area is a immediate danger, the quorum level the path to food and to the nest. They less attractive to ants before crucial factor. To measure an irregular is set far higher. provide a decentralised method of disappearing completely. shaped crevice, the ants apply an controlling and directing foraging Research into ant pheromone elegant heuristic estimate of the Finding food activity that is far more robust, rapid trails has consistently shown that this floor area that combines pheromone Of all the activities undertaken by and flexible than any centralised simple model is far from the whole chemistry and mathematics. ant colonies, the most noticeable is system could be. story, with different species exhibiting The ant enters and walks around foraging. Taking place entirely outside The basic system is straightforward: more complex signals, distinct the site for a fixed length of time, the nest environment, foraging is a scout ants lay a trail behind them chemical trails and diverse ways to use organisation colony-level appropriately, basing their decisions laying behind it an individual-specific critical but highly risky activity, often and, if they find food, they follow and organise the trail system. Sociality creates more efficient and behaviour and on local information. Given the scope chemical trail not dissimilar to the apparent ‘swarm effective ways than is possible in a intelligence’ can of activities, the numbers of workers pheromone foraging trails ants use to solitary lifestyle. Division of labour, emerge without in the colony, and the geographical find their way to food and back to the make conditions ideal for Flying Ant Day. whereby different individuals the need for separation of foragers from the nest, nest. The ant then leaves the potential AntS on the WinG Interestingly, a period of lower pressure undertake different tasks, is a central control. it would be impossible to control nest chamber, only to re-enter it and, pushed its way across much of the UK fundamental aspect of human centrally anyway. once again, walk around for a set oUR FLYinG Ant SURVeY between the 25th of July and the 6th of organisation and also features period of time. On the re-visit, the August. This brought lower temperatures and heavily in the way that ants organise Decentralised control ant uses her antennae to detect when s well as being an excellent example of July, before tailing off on the following higher precipitation in the time between the themselves and their work within Temnothorax albipennis, also known her new path crosses her previous, Aof collective foraging, L. niger also days and returning to background levels. The peaks. One possibility is that the low pressure and without the nest. But while it is as the rock ant, is one of the 50 or so chemically-indicated path. In a small provides us in the UK with a genuine natural second sharp increase occurs on the 8th of cut short the period of weather conducive to tempting to draw parallels between species of ant that live in the UK. chamber she is far more likely to cross spectacle every summer. Around late July/ August with little lead in. It was a shock for nuptial flights, which might explain why there the organisational structures of A small ant (about 2mm) that is her previous path, and to do so more August, colonies of pavement ants release many to see ‘Flying Ant Day’ happen again! was no build-up on the second peak and humans and ants, fundamentally ants neither especially common nor widely times on her set-length walk than in a their sexual individuals – gynes and males We expected that lower wind speeds there were reports of the same ant colonies and humans organise work in a very distributed, it is easily overlooked. larger chamber. – which then leave nests in large numbers and precipitation across the UK would having a second flight on the 8th of August. different way. However, careful study of this ant by Consequently, the number of times to embark on a mating, or nuptial, flight. The Human organisations generally Professor Nigel Franks and his team she crosses her path is a reasonable Society of Biology this year undertook a operate via a hierarchical command at AntLab, University of Bristol, has proxy for the floor area of the project to gather data from around the UK on 1400 structure with, at least notionally, revealed some highly sophisticated chamber. A similar approach, known when, where and under what conditions the a single individual or a small mechanisms for making difficult and as Buffon’s needle, is used in maths to ants take flight. 1200 group of individuals controlling survival-critical decisions. estimate pi. Data was collected by amateur recorders the organisation centrally. In T. albipennis colonies are typically If a scout is satisfied that she has filling in the flying ant survey on the Society of 1000 contrast, social insects like ants are found in exposed cliffs and other found a suitable nest site, she returns Biology website. We were thrilled to receive decentralised. The queen is in no outcrops, occupying small rocky to the original nest to collect a nest 6,300 records; thank you to everyone who 800 sense a ruler and she certainly does cracks. Inside the crack, the colony mate, leading the way through reported their sightings. here’s what we’ve not issue commands. builds tiny walls from sand and pieces behaviour called tandem running. found so far: 600 Instead, individuals operate of grit, but the nests are fragile and She teaches the accompanying ant according to simple rules applied prone to collapse. When this happens, the route to the potential new nest. The first thing that strikes us is the bimodal 400

in specific situations. Through the colony must relocate rapidly, Once there, this new recruit can distribution, with two distinct peaks in no. of flying ant records many workers interacting with since the queen and brood left out appraise the nest and, if she likes what submitted records of flying ants. Throughout 200 themselves and their environment in the open are prone to desiccation she finds, she can repeat the tandem June and early July submissions trickle in this distributed way, colony-level and predation. This relocation can running with a new recruit, leading to in, many of them from inside houses or 0 behaviour and apparent ‘swarm be replicated quite effectively in the ever more ants arriving at the site. greenhouses. however, on the 21st of July the 1 Jun 15 Jun 13 Jul 27 Jul 7 Sep intelligence’ can emerge without lab by keeping a colony sandwiched Once a sufficient number of ants number of records begins to climb rapidly. 29 Jun 10 Aug 24 Aug the need for central control. Such a between two glass slides and simply have appraised and approved the new This culminates in a large peak on the 24th Date (2012) system relies on individuals acting removing the top slide. A colony site, the colony reaches a threshold

16 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 17 ANIMAL WeLFARe COMPANIONShIP IN CATTLe FARmYARD FRienDS The need for companionship in dairy cattle is crucial for their welfare yet often overlooked, argues Krista mclennan

he word stress for most of us support and social buffering. Cows holds certain connotations. also have difficulty remembering tStress can motivate and push previous encounters with other us to strive further but it can also individuals when living in large be highly detrimental. We regularly groups, increasing the potential stress encounter stress throughout our lives they experience. and each develop different strategies to cope with it. The body can adjust the biology of stress and adapt to stress through a number For many animals the methods used of physiological changes. But long to cope with stress can be a matter term stress can cause long term of life and death: fleeing from a damage within the body. predator or defending a mate for the Production animals such as cows chance to reproduce. Once the central and sheep also experience a number nervous system (CNS) has perceived a of different stressors within their potential threat, the animal performs environment that we ask them to the most relevant and energy-efficient adjust to, such as changes in housing, behaviour that will remove it from that diet and social groupings. Their ability threat. The adrenal medulla releases to cope with these changes is often both adrenaline and noradrenaline revealed in their success or failure into the blood, causing an increase as a production animal. Exposure in the heart rate, blood pressure and to such stress on a regular basis not glucose availability within the animal, only has economic consequences for preparing it for action. the producer, but reduces the overall This sympatho-adrenomedullary health and welfare of the animal. response (SAM) is short-lived and As modern practices adapt to meet a second physiological response the increasing demand for food, the is awoken soon after the threat is social lives of livestock are changing perceived; that of the hypothalamic- fundamentally. It is important to pituitary-adrenal axis. Stimulation of understand farm animals’ social the hypothalamus by the CNS causes environment and their need for it to give out corticotrophin-releasing companionship during stressful times. hormone, which in turn makes the Husbandry practices that reduce anterior pituitary gland synthesise stress and the negative impact on and release adrenocorticotrophic both production and welfare are hormone (ACTH) into the circulation. fundamental to both the producer ACTH causes the release of and the cow. glucocorticoids (cortisol and The increase in farming corticosterone) into the blood intensification has led to larger group stream. This amplifies the original sizes and higher stocking densities, response, encouraging the SAM making it incredibly difficult for cattle to secrete more adrenaline and to form and maintain relationships. noradrenaline, further increasing During stressful times such as the heart rate and blood pressure rehousing, cows may not be able to of the animal under stress. This take advantage of the positive aspects amplification of the stress response of social groupings such as social prepares the body for sustained

18 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 19 ANIMAL WeLFARe COMPANIONShIP IN CATTLe

ReFeRenceS 110 Brakel, W. J. & Leis, R. Preferred Without A. Impact of Social 105 Partner Preferred Disorganisation on Partner Behaviour, Milk Yield, 100 and Body Weight of Dairy Cows. J. Dairy Sci. 95 59(4), 716-721 (1976). 90 Capitanio, J. P. & Lerche, N. W. Social 85 separation, housing relocation, and 80

survival in simian heart rate (bPm) AIDS: a retrospective 75 analysis. Psychosom 70 Med. 60(3), 235-244 (1998). 65 Clark, P. W. et al. effect on Milk Yield of Moving 60 Cows from Group to 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 33 35 Group. J. Dairy Sci. Time (minutes) 60(5), 769-772 (1977). eFSA. Scientific fig. 2. The heart rates (bpm) of heifers during social isolation with their preferred Opinion of the Panel partner and without their preferred partner but with another random individual. on Animal health and Welfare on a request from the Commission Fig. 2). This indicates that the Certain animals were more in on the risk assessment of the presence of a preferred partner can need of a preferred partner when impact of housing, reduce the stress response (of the trying to cope in a stressful situation nutrition and feeding, cardiovascular system) during a compared with their partners. This management and potentially stressful experience. It suggests different coping strategies genetic selection on behaviour, fear and also highlights that cattle can form within dairy cattle when exposed to pain problems in dairy different types and strengths of stressful social situations. Individuals cows. The EFSA relationship with others whilst in a whose heart rate is reduced by the Journal 1139, 1-68 (2009). commercial situation, and that these presence of a preferred partner (but Gygax, L. et al. relationships hold some importance still remains higher than the partner’s Differences between to them. Further understanding when with a random individual), single and paired of these relationships is needed to may be less able to cope with heifers in residency in ensure the welfare of animals in stressful situations when the social functional areas, length of travel path, production systems. environment becomes unstable. and area used exertion. But it begins to put extra Cattle society naturally consists of to rest, in groups often dominated Social isolation and separation throughout days 1-6 individuality Welfare implications BIOGRAPhY after integration into a pressure on other systems within the matriarchal units with related, as well by individuals higher in rank. The As part of general husbandry free stall dairy herd. Animals are individuals and their Social relationships are complicated body, such as the cardiovascular and as unrelated, females tending stress associated with these changes practices, animals are separated Applied Animal response to a stressful experience and can change according to the metabolic systems. to remain together, forming close in grouping can have significant from the rest of the group for a short Behaviour Science may be different from another animal’s status as well as the situation. 120(1-2), 49-55 If the source of stress remains, and long lasting relationships health and welfare implications for period of time – for vet visits or for (2009). animal’s. There are a number of For example, an individual that is in these physiological changes will (Reinhardt & Reinhardt, 1981). Wild dairy cows and is one of the main foot trimming, for example. Any factors that can influence their heat or is unwell is likely to experience hasegawa, N. et al. The begin to have negative consequences groups range in size from between concerns regarding their welfare separation from the group can cause effects of social response, such as genetics, age, a change in its social standing. An on the body. For example, the 13 and 32 animals. within the UK (EFSA, 2009). In an acute physiological stress response exchange between previous exposure to the stressor, animal under chronic stress that has release of glucocorticoids affects In contrast, most dairy cattle within addition, there are economic losses in dairy cattle. two groups of and the individual’s coping strategy. not been able to cope with the ever lactating primiparous the secretion of other hormones Krista mclennan is the UK are housed in large dynamic associated with this as production A good method for assessing the Interestingly, the study above found changing social environment will associate lecturer heifers on milk such as somatotrophin, prolactin, and resident social groups (117 cows, on average) falls and somatic cell counts importance of relationships is to production, individual differences in animals’ develop a lowered status, dominance order, and gonadotrophin, influencing the researcher in where animals are regrouped increase. (See Table 1, page 22, measure this physiological response responses to stress. behaviour and animals’ growth, milk production animal welfare at regularly according to their lactation for a review of the literature on when isolated with firstly a preferred adrenocortical and fertility, respectively. In addition, moulton college. stage. As a consequence, cattle can regrouping effects in cattle.) partner and then with a random but response. Applied numerous studies have reported she completed her experience anywhere between four Stable companionship within a known individual. Animal Behaviour the negative impact of stress on the msc in animal and 12 pen changes in a year and group may help to provide a sense of In a study by our team at Moulton Science 51(1-2), 15-27 behaviour at the (1997). immune functions of both humans group composition can change by stability and the ‘support’ provided College, the heart rates of six dairy University of Jóhannesson, T. & and animals (Capitanio & Lerche, exeter. up to 57% in a two month period by companions may reduce the stress cattle that had been previously Sørensen, J. T. 1998). (For more on the effects of (Jóhannesson & Sørensen, 2000). of regroupings. It is apparent from identified as having a social bond evaluation of Welfare childhood stress in humans, see Inevitably, regrouping makes it recent research that younger cattle with another animal (preferred Indicators for the Social environment in Stafford Lightman’s article on page 31.) extremely difficult for cattle to (heifers) cope better and integrate partner) were measured during a Cattle herds. Animal establish social bonds and maintain into a new herd quicker if they are social isolation observation over a Welfare 9(3), 297-316 Social stress group stability. introduced as a pair rather than as 30-minute period, either with their (2000). Relationships provide a wide variety The regrouping of cattle is often an individual (Gygax et al., 2009; preferred partner or with a random of benefits to social animals, including associated with an increase in Neisen et al., 2009). What is not individual. When isolated from predator defence mechanisms, optimal aggression as individuals try to yet clear in cattle is whether the the rest of the group but in contact foraging patterns, transmission of establish their place within the animal providing support has to be a with their preferred partners, information through learning, and group’s hierarchy. Animals have particular preferred companion that cattle had significantly lower heart ‘social buffering’ – a reduction in stress to compete for access to vital an individual may have a bond with, rates than when they were isolated through companionship. resources, such as food and a space or can be any familiar animal. with a random individual (see

20 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 21 ANIMAL WeLFARe COMPANIONShIP IN CATTLe

further impacting upon her health Mench, J. A. et al. Social and subsequently her production. stress and dominance among group Social bonds and some degree members after mixing of stable companionship could beef cows. Canadian help reduce many of the negative Journal of Animal Science. 70, 345–354 consequences associated with (1990). changes in social groupings. Neisen, G. et al. effects The Moulton College study also of the introduction of draws attention to the variation in single heifers or pairs coping strategies in animals and how of heifers into dairy- cow herds on the the needs of individuals should temporal and spatial be assessed. associations of At the moment intensive heifers and cows. Applied Animal production practices do not give Behaviour Science. enough consideration to the social 119(3-4), 127-136 behaviour of dairy cattle. Farming (2009). models based on the ‘mega-dairies’ Reinhardt, V. & found in the USA that are currently Reinhardt, A. Cohesive relationships in a being proposed in the UK are cattle herd. Behaviour. especially concerning in terms of 77, 121-151 (1981). social stress. Veissier, I. et al. Calves’ Research is being conducted responses to repeated social into the development of these regrouping and relationships and how large dynamic relocation. J. Anim Sci. group systems affect welfare, with a 79(10), 2580-2593 view to finding a practical solution. (2001). Yet simply keeping animals in more von Keyserlingk, M. A. G. et al. Acute stable groups can help to alleviate Behavioural effects of some of the negative consequences Regrouping Dairy associated with regrouping and Cows. J. Dairy Sci. 91(3), 1011-1016 separation. This will not only (2008). improve the welfare of the cow, but can maintain good levels of health, reproduction and well-being, leading to a more productive, healthy cow. Unfortunately, competition from large producers and changes beloW Table 1. a review in agricultural policy make such of the effects of practices, often seen on smaller-scale regrouping and dairies, difficult to maintain. mixing on cattle.

Author(s) Aim of study Species observation length effect of regrouping/mixing after mixing

brakel & leis (1976) effect of regrouping on behaviour, Cattle 0-28 days high levels of aggression following milk yield and body weight. regrouping, a decrease in milk yield, but no effect on body weight.

clark et al. (1977) effect on milk production of moving Cattle -5-5 days Milk yield declined the day following cows from group to group. regrouping but returned to normal subsequently.

mench et al. (1990) Social stress and long term Cattle 1-13 weeks Levels of aggression and levels of consequences of mixing beef cows. cortisol increased after the introduction of alien cows.

hasegawa et al. effects of social regrouping on Cattle -10-16 days high levels of aggression following (1997) behaviour and performance of regrouping, a decrease in milk yield, and mid-lactation heifers. high levels of cortisol in regrouped animals.

Veissier et al. (2001) effect of repeated regrouping and Calves 0-24 hours Increased levels of aggression following relocation on veal calves. regrouping and an increase in cortisol response levels in regrouped calves.

von Keyserlingk effects of regrouping on the social Cattle -3-4 days high levels of aggression following et al. (2008) behaviours of cows and milk regrouping, and milk production decreased production. on the day subsequent to regrouping.

A ‘-’ sign on observation length after mixing denotes that observations were carried out before the mixing/regrouping took place.

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JBE.indd 1 30/08/2011 15:19 ReSeARCh CARIBBeAN SPIDeRS

SpiDeRS oF the cARiBBeAn Jo-anne nina sewlal amsb discusses the importance of studying arachnids in Trinidad

BIOGRAPhY piders, one of the most species- characteristics that make them rich animal orders, occupy all excellent candidates for biodiversity Sterrestrial ecosystems on the research: their abundance and ease of planet except for Antarctica. There sampling (Hsieh & Linsenmair, 2011), are 42,473 species documented so sensitivity to habitat change (Hsieh far (Platnick, 2012) and an estimated et al., 2003) and occupation of a mid- 60,000-170,000 yet to be described level position in terrestrial food webs (Coddington & Levi, 1991). However, (Wise, 1993). spiders not only add to the number of Occupying such a position in a Jo-anne nina species found on our planet, but fulfil food web means that they act as sewlal amsb holds important ecological functions, making food for organisms in higher trophic bsc and mPhil degrees from the them a crucial research subject. levels, such as lizards and birds, and University of the My research focuses on the feed on organisms at lower levels. West indies, st. biodiversity of three orb-weaving This latter role has earned them augustine, Trinidad spider families found on the West the title of important ecosystem and is currently Indian island of Trinidad: Araneidae, stabilizers (Coyle, 1981) as they pursuing her PhD on the biodiversity Nephilidae and Tetragnathidae. control populations of arthropods of three orb- These three families were selected for (Moulder & Reichle, 1972; Riechert, weaving spider study as they have a uniform lifestyle, 1974). Lycosa terrestris and Pardosa families found in which makes it easier to detect new birmanica, of the family Lycosidae, Trinidad. species, as well as changes in their and Oxyopes javanus of the family ecology. As web-building spiders, Oxyopidae, act as biological control they are dependent on vegetation agents, keeping down populations to attach their webs to – the species of flies in rice fields and therefore Nephila clavipes, composition in a particular habitat playing a crucial role in our planet’s commonly called can indicate if the vegetation structure food security. the golden has been altered and the severity of Spiders also make a good group orb-weaver, is a the disturbance. of bioindicator organisms, due spider species which exhibits The natural history and ecology to their sensitivity to changes in extreme sexual of web-building orb-weavers like vegetation structure. Plants maintain dimorphism. Araneidae is not as well understood as spiders’ microclimate by regulating females can be that of the large wandering hunting temperature and humidity, offer over 20 times spiders, like those of the family shelter from the elements and larger than males. The male here is at Lycosidae, as they are not easy to rear protection from predators, as well the top of this and maintain in laboratory conditions. as providing sites for web-building picture. Yet in general, spiders possess certain species to attach their webs.

24 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 25 ReSeARCh CARIBBeAN SPIDeRS

more step in bridging the information use it to wrap prey, make egg sacs righT Nephila clavipes, gap in this area. or construct retreats by stitching Azilia vachoni pictured beloW righT in Trinidad. Trinidad and Tobago is special in leaves together. They also use silk as terms of biodiversity as it is made up a form of transport. From a height Mesabolivar aurantiacus of continental islands which were such as on a branch or rock, the separated from the South American spider releases a line of silk, which continent around 10,000 years ago gets caught in the wind, carrying the (Diamond, 1975), taking with them spider along with it. This method parts of established ecosystems and of transport is known as ballooning ReFeRenceS biodiversity of that area. Therefore and is often used by young spiders Coddington, J.A. & Levi, h.W. Systematics it is assumed that the biota found (spiderlings) to escape from their and evolution of north of the Amazon and east of the cannibalistic siblings. spiders. Annual Review of Ecology and Andes would be similar to that found One of the famous properties of Systematics 22, 565- in Trinidad and Tobago. However, spider silk is that it is very strong, 592 (1991). its small size in comparison to the and able to be stretched many times Coyle, F. A. effects of mainland makes it more manageable more than its relaxed length. Some clear cutting on the spider community of a in terms of sampling, so conclusions tribes in the South Pacific use it as Southern Appalachian drawn from this research can, fishing line. The commercial use of forest. Journal of Arachnology 9, 285- with caution, be applied to some its strength is also being investigated, 298 (1981). ecosystems on the mainland. since some species produce silk that Diamond, J.M. The Searching for spiders is not always is over 10 times tougher than Kevlar, island dilemma. a safe activity here in Trinidad – it is the material used to manufacture Lessons of modern biogeographic possible to wander into a hunter’s bulletproof vests. The strength of studies for the trail and set off a trap gun meant for the silk and its practical applications design of natural reserves. Biological a game animal. There are natural were the focus of a recent episode of Conservation 7, 129- hazards as well, including a few a documentary series I appeared in, 146 (1975). poisonous snakes, the most common Wild Freaks of Nature, aired on the hubbell, S.P. The Unified Neutral species being Mapepire Balsain Science Channel (a subsidiary of the Theory of Biodiversity (Bothrops atrox). On my way to one of Discovery Channel). and Biogeography. my sample sites on the summit of El One of the highlights of my Princeton Univ. Press, Princeton, NJ. (2001) Tucuche, the second highest peak on work so far has been my MPhil hsieh, Y.L. et al. the island, the trail was littered with research, conducted in Trinidad Ground spider juveniles snapping their jaws at me. and Tobago, and centred on the diversity in the Kenting uplifted coral spider Mesabolivar aurantiacus. reef forest, Taiwan: a common species This species is often accompanied comparison between habitats receiving Of the three families I study, the by the endemic bug Arachnocoris various disturbances. most common orb-weaver is Nephila trinitatus. This was assumed to be a Biodiversity and clavipes of the Nephilidae family. kleptoparasite, feeding off the scraps Conservation 12, 2173-2194 (2003).

Known as the golden orb-weaver, of the insect prey of the spider whose ABBOTT JOHN hsieh, Y.L. & due to the spectacular colour of its web it occupied, but my research Linsenmair, K.e. silk, this species makes large webs showed that they preferred to occupy Underestimated spider diversity in spanning a metre in width. Golden orb- empty M. aurantiacus webs. Thus a temperate beech weavers also exhibit extreme sexual it is most likely they depend on the forest. Biodiversity dimorphism, with females over 20 webs of the spider to catch their own and Conservation 20, 2953-2965 (2011). times larger than males. insect prey. Moulder, B.C. Another common species & Reichle, D.e. from the Araneidae family is the new discoveries Significance of spider predation in the nocturnal Eriophora edax. These In addition to writing on the energy dynamics of spiders eat their old webs and environment and biodiversity in forest floor arthropod communities. rebuild them, thus recycling silk. a weekly national newspaper, Ecological The spiders of the Tetragnathidae I have developed a website Monographs 42(4), JOHN ABBOTT JOHN family are usually found near water (www.caribbeanspiders.com) on 473-498 (1972). Biodiversity in disturbed habitats habitats are unique: as well as and will often build their webs on my research. This resource will help Platnick, N. I. The world spider catalog, This dependency on plants is the containing species characteristic of the vegetation along river banks people identify spiders and find version 12.5. American focus of my current research: disturbed areas, they are also home to and even over running water. The further information on them, such as Museum of Natural The spider history, online at comparing the spider biodiversity fauna of the species found in primary habitats that species Azilia vachoni is so sensitive their effect on human health. http://research. in natural and disturbed habitats. Neotropics were there originally. to disturbance it will abandon I am glad I decided to make amnh.org/iz/spiders/ Approximately 20% of primary its web if your shadow falls on arachnology my career as it has been catalog. DOI: 10.5531/ in general – db.iz.0001. (2012). forests worldwide have been Studying spiders in the caribbean it. When faced with a potential nothing short of an adventure, full of particularly Riechert, S.e. destroyed, with 40% in a serious The spider fauna of the Neotropics in predator, this species will violently travels and new discoveries. But the Thoughts on the state of degradation (Hubbell, the West general – particularly the West Indies shake, and often drops from its web most rewarding aspect is changing ecological significance of spiders. BioScience 2001). Thousands of acres of forest Indies – are – are poorly recorded, with scattered and plays dead. how people view spiders, from only 24(6), 352-356 (1974). are cleared annually, resulting in poorly references made from short visits Spiders are probably most well being popular in horror or science Wise, D.h. Spiders the loss of natural habitat for many recorded by researchers. I have been entering known for the production of silk. fiction movies or at Halloween, to in Ecological Webs. New York: Cambridge organisms, including spiders. uncharted territories, with every However, not all species use silk to valuable members of our ecosystems University Press

In terms of conservation, disturbed island yielding new finds and one construct webs. Some spiders here to be respected and protected. (1993). ABBOTT JOHN

26 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 27 INTeRVIeW SIR IAN WILMUT LiFe AFteR DoLLY sixteen years after creating Dolly the sheep, the world’s first cloned mammal, professor Sir ian Wilmut talks to Tom ireland msb about the project that defined his career and how embryology and cell programming have advanced since then

You initially studied agriculture. BIOGRAPhY another. What we are doing now is with lots of different skills – like What led you to your career as an really an international collaboration. micro-manipulation – and a huge embryologist? We grow specific cell types that are background of staff working with the There is nothing in my background affected in inherited disease and can’t animals. It is truly a team effort. But that would suggest I’d go into academic be biopsied easily, like neural tissues. I’m pleased to be recognised for it. research. I worked on a farm and The differences between healthy and studied agriculture. Then on the last affected cells can be studied to establish Does it affect your research to vacation of my degree I worked as an therapies that prevent the development this day? intern at the laboratory of Chris Polge, or progression of the disease. There is no question it has created where we looked at pregnancy in Professor sir ian At the moment we’re taking opportunities for me, both socially Wilmut is director livestock. It involved searching for and of the medical accessible cells from someone with and in my research. I was made assessing embryos. research council inherited motor neurone disease and director of the MRC Centre for My eight weeks there convinced me centre for growing glia and motor neurones Regenerative Medicine at the that embryology was what I wanted regenerative in the lab – we can then compare University of Edinburgh, which is to do and I went on to do a PhD. I medicine at the them with cells created from healthy quite extraordinary for someone was working on embryo transfer in University of individuals. It appears that, although with my background. The balance edinburgh. in 1996 livestock and pre-natal mortality. his team at symptoms start in the motor neurone, of positive and negative benefits has That was my first area of interest edinburgh’s roslin the glia may ‘fan the flames’ and definitely been in my favour. – the variation in physiology and institute created exacerbate the disease. environmental factors that influence Dolly the sheep, Did you ever worry about the an embryo’s survival. the first mammal What other types of tissue could controversy such projects would I was then persuaded in the mid-80s to be cloned you create? attract? from an adult that my embryo skills would be useful somatic cell. Naively, I’d say almost everything. Some years earlier there had been in trying to introduce additional genes We have a project to produce lots of anti-vivisection activity in into sheep so they would produce cardiovascular cells with a view to that part of Scotland, and in fact human proteins that could help fight looking at inherited conditions too. the [Roslin] Institute had been disease. That led to the production of firebombed. We were perhaps Tracy the sheep, who would have been could this technology eventually help fortunate in that if we had made our the most famous sheep were it not for grow entire disease-free organs? announcement about Dolly during Dolly, as Tracy was producing human Producing cells and small amounts that period it may have been worse. proteins in her milk. of tissue is realistic; whole tissues There were one or two protests and organs is more demanding. The but they were just fairly quiet ones Where has your research taken idea of going in this direction as a outside the university gates. you since Dolly? treatment for inherited disease is After Dolly’s birth we did try what that there are no pluripotent cells Did you have any idea the work Shinya Yamanaka’s team did in Kyoto introduced into the patient and would produce such an impact? [reprogramme adult cells to create therefore no risk of introducing No we didn’t. Soon after the stem cells, rather than creating teratomas [tumours resulting announcement I was woken up by a embryos through ‘cloning’]. But we from the abnormal development journalist calling from Moscow who weren’t successful. It was so exciting of stem cells]. told me that he, another journalist hearing what he had done because it and a photographer would not just meant you could do so much with cells Do you enjoy being widely known as be coming over but spending a few – from creating pluripotent cells and the man behind Dolly the sheep? days with us. For several days we changing cells from one lineage to Research like that requires people were swamped.

28 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 29 INTeRVIeW SIR IAN WILMUT

Do you think the press and the that do not contain the gene for how seriously do you take the general public understood what that condition. threat of unlicensed cloning of you were doing? The social and My own view has not changed on humans by rogue scientists? People did understand our psychological whether we should do reproductive Well there are no cloned primates motivations but didn’t take much effects of cloning – couples who cannot have yet and we know that there are notice – the focus was, of course, on being a clone children should not be able to clone major biological differences between the possibilities of human cloning. would be too the father, for example. The social primates and humans. It’s not going As with these things, the sub- great. The and psychological effects of being a to be possible with the layers of editors like to create headlines that pressure to clone would be too great. regulation in this country and it would attract people’s interest and that’s be like their Perhaps they could be managed, be very difficult to do illicitly because something you just have to accept. father would but the clone of the father would not of the sort of work and technology To their great credit, the Institute be so unusual have the independence of a normal required. But of course, the procedure and the company that sponsored human. The pressure to be like their is not illegal in all countries. the research had arranged for us father would be so unusual. to have media training, which was how many years are we from gene incredibly useful. therapy being a mainstream treatment for inherited disease What sort of scenarios worry instead of an experimental one? you when you think about scientists In terms of changing somatic cells, I changing human genomes, think people must be very excited now or cloning? and I don’t think we are far from it The first thing you have to imagine being used to treat disease. Changing is correcting a mutation in a major the fate of prospective children is dominant gene. The frightening different and something I have real thing is someone having the anxiety about. following conversation: “Son, we did this to try and do this, but…” Do you think the UK’s current That would just be awful. system for debating ethics and There are alternatives to help regulating bioscience works and couples select children without is fit for purpose? a certain condition, such as In the UK, I think we should be very preimplantation genetic selection, proud of the Human Fertilisation of course. But even then, such is and Embryology Authority. It works the nature of probability that some very well and provides really good couples will not have any embryos guidance.

30 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Do yoU haVe an oPinion on This arTicle? CONTACT US AT [email protected] eNDOCRINOLOGY ChILDReN AND STReSS UnDeR pReSSURe

Professor stafford lightman, with colleagues Dr Julie Turner-Cobb and Dr David Jessop, explores the positive and negative effects of childhood stress, and whether it has consequences for adult health

n humans, as with most species, it is important to have a stress- iresponse system that can protect against predators, changes in climatic conditions and food availability, and internal stressors such as infection or blood loss. The neuroendocrine system is a major factor in an individual’s ability to maintain homeostasis and for the optimal function of their cognitive and metabolic activities under stress. But the flip side of this response to stress is that over-activation can actually result in increased morbidity and mortality from metabolic, cardiovascular and psychological disease.

Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 31 eNDOCRINOLOGY ChILDReN AND STReSS

Stress in human childhood cortisol levels compared to controls was found to be related to cortisol Epigenetic alterations and a (Halligan et al., 2004). increases over the day. programming of the stress response The Yet it’s not just shy or introverted can also be seen in the first few years consensus effects of childcare children who respond more to of childhood, as well as in the prenatal of work is Two particular ‘life events’ enable the demands of childcare. In fact, period. In concert with life experience that high researchers to place stress responses significant HPA axis activity has and stress exposure, these can shape quality in young children under the also been seen in more extroverted the physiological reactivity and health childcare microscope in naturalistic settings. children attending daycare, when outcomes of a person throughout does not have The first of these is the experience of the environment they enter does their adult life. negative non-maternal childcare. Childcare not match their temperament, The most graphic demonstration effects on received some bad press back in the creating a social threat or challenge of the importance of maternal children in 1980s and 90s, with anecdotal horror (Zimmermann & Stansbury, 2004). attachment for psychological and terms of their stories of emotional damage caused The social threat created by such an physical health in infants is Harlow’s physical or by out-of-home childcare experiences. interaction may generate a cortisol well-known attachment experiments psychological Important work in this area has response and, if continued over time, (Harlow & Zimmermann, 1959) health identified how low quality childcare, result in a flatter cortisol profile over in which infant monkeys were especially in conjunction with certain a 24 hour period, with higher evening experimentally orphaned and reared temperaments, has negative effects on and greater morning cortisol levels. by surrogate machine mothers. the developing neuroendocrine system There is a paucity of research into In children, work at the more (Dettling et al., 2000). In children with the long term effects of childcare on severe end of the early life adversity temperaments showing greater fear, health. One birth cohort study by Ball spectrum has drawn from examples anger and discomfort, and with lower and colleagues provides evidence of physical, emotional or sexual impulse control, quality of childcare that childcare experience may confer maltreatment, including children who have been institutionalised in extremely deprived orphanage environments. Such work has revealed striking effects on neuroendocrine function (Carrion, 2002; Cicchetti, 2001; Gunnar, 2001). While children in the more severe orphanage cases were found to have raised cortisol levels (Gunnar et al., 2001) whether a child suffers from elevated or lowered cortisol levels (hypo- or hypercortisolism) appears to depend upon a range of factors: the severity of the experience, duration of the stressor, age of the child during It is increasingly recognised BIOGRAPhY changes in offspring (Weaver et al., underlying perinatal programming stress and when the neuroendocrine that exposure of young animals to 2004). In man, pre and postnatal appear to involve dysregulation of or health outcome is assessed adverse conditions not only results maternal anxiety and depression can the enzyme, which normally protects (Turner-Cobb et al., 2005). in a stress response at the time, result in sustained programming the foetus from maternal cortisol A dysfunctional family produces less but can programme the animal’s effects on the autonomic nervous (Wyrwoll et al., 2009). The end result severe but still notable effects, which neuroendocrine, metabolic, system and hypothalamic-pituitary- is that the foetus, on exposure to high are often delayed or long lasting. In behavioural and immunological adrenal (HPA) axis of the offspring levels of cortisol, develops epigenetic particular, the effect of the mother’s responses for the rest of its life. This (Vedhara et al., 2012). changes in its own glucocorticoid psychological state on glucocorticoid permanent imprinting of an animal’s Glucocorticoids – the steroid receptors. This has been found in rats regulation in young children: the stafford lightman behaviour is most sensitive in early life is professor of hormones secreted from the and in man (McGowan et al., 2009). cortisol response of seven-year- and is known as programming. Our medicine, director adrenal cortex – appear to be very While elevated cortisol may be old children experiencing a mild current concept of this is that poor of the henry important mediators of stress-induced useful in the short term (days, weeks) laboratory stressor was significantly intrauterine or postnatal conditions Wellcome programming early in life. Many in order to cope with the challenge greater in those exposed to maternal can result in epigenetic changes laboratories for studies have shown that antenatal at an emotional level, it may also clinical depression during the first two (alterations in gene expression not integrative treatment with glucocorticoids produce unwanted behavioural side years of life (Ashman et al., 2002). neuroscience, caused by changes in DNA) which University of results in decreased birth weight and effects. In the longer term (weeks, Temperament is also a factor in alter gene function throughout the bristol. The article abnormal activity in the HPA axis in months), elevated or disrupted the relationship between early stress rest of the life of the animal. is co-authored by later life (Kapoor et al., 2008). It is cortisol levels may have dysregulatory in life and physiology, with children Many animal models have been Dr Julie Turner- also associated with increased risk effects on immune functioning, who exhibit more introverted or developed to explore the mechanisms cobb, senior of cardiovascular disease and the and increase the child’s susceptibility internalising behaviours more likely and outcomes of perinatal lecturer in health development of affective disorder, to acute infectious illness. to show elevated cortisol responses psychology, programming. The offspring of University of bath, a mental disorder characterised by Over time (months, years), the (Ashman et al., 2002). These effects stressed mothers have been shown and Dr David dramatic changes or extremes of dysregulated pattern may pave have been reported to extend into to develop altered stress responses Jessop of the mood (Seckl, 2004). the way for more serious chronic adolescence, with 13 year olds (Maccari et al., 1995) and even University of The most significant glucocorticoid conditions such as those associated exposed to early life adversity (in changes in maternal behaviour are bristol. is cortisol, known as ‘the stress with the body’s autoimmune the form of postnatal depression) enough to cause significant epigenetic hormone’. The mechanisms response. having significantly higher morning

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Long term effects ReFeRenceS These early experiences of stress may Appleton, A. A. et al. The association length and inflammation. Psychosom shape our psycho-endocrine-immune between childhood emotional functioning Med. 73(1), 16-22 (2011). profile for life. What happens if we and adulthood inflammation is modified by Maccari, S. et al. J Neurosci. 15:110-116 take a much broader perspective on early-life socioeconomic status. Health (1995). the effect of early experience and Psychol. (2012). move beyond these more immediate McGowan, P. O. et al. epigenetic regulation Ashman, S. B. et al. Stress hormone levels of the glucocorticoid receptor in human effects? What is the degree of of children of depressed mothers. brain associates with childhood abuse. plasticity within physiological systems Development and Psychopathology Nat Neurosci. 12, 342-348 (2009). such as the stress response, and when 14(2), 333-349 (2002). Miller, G., & Chen, e. Unfavorable might more severe experiences have Ball, T. M. et al. Influence of attendance at long lasting effects? There is some socioeconomic conditions in early life day care on the common cold from birth presage expression of proinflammatory evidence, based on young women through 13 years of age. Archives of phenotype in adolescence. Psychosom. who had experienced sexual and Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine Med. 69(5), 402-409 (2007). physical abuse, to suggest that early 156(2), 121-126 (2002). Newport, D. J. et al. Pituitary-adrenal life experiences can have an influence Carrion, V. G. et al. Diurnal salivary cortisol in on our physiology and health well into responses to standard and low-dose pediatric posttraumatic stress disorder. dexamethasone suppression tests in adult adulthood (Newport et al., 2004). Biological Psychiatry 51(7), 575-582 (2002). survivors of child abuse. Biological Indeed such epigenetic effects even Chryssanthopoulou, C. C. et al. Childcare Psychiatry 55, 10-20 (2004). appear to operate across generations, as a stabilizing influence on hPA axis Quas, J. A. et al. Predictors of children’s with reports of glucocorticoid changes functioning: a reevaluation of maternal in adult offspring of parents who cortisol activation during the transition to occupational patterns and familial kindergarten. Developmental and experienced severely stressful life relations. Dev. Psychobiol. Behavioral Pediatrics 23(5), 304-313 (2002). events (Yehuda et al., 2001). 47(4), 354-368 (2005). Seckl, J. R. Prenatal glucocorticoids and There is also evidence that adversity Cicchetti, D. & Rogosch, F. A. Diverse during childhood may increase long-term programming. Eur J Endocrinol. patterns of neuroendocrine activity in 151 Suppl 3:U49-62 (2004). vulnerability to inflammatory diseases maltreated children. Development and in later life. Low social economic status Psychopathology 13(3), 677-693 (2001). Turner-Cobb, J.M. Psychological and and emotional difficulties at age seven stress hormone correlates in early life: a Dettling, A. C. et al. Quality of care and have both been associated with raised key to hPA-axis dysregulation and temperament determine changes in normalisation. Stress 8(1), 47-57 (2005). inflammatory responses in middle cortisol concentrations over the day for age (Appleton et al., 2012). Severity young children in childcare. Turner-Cobb, J. M., Rixon, L. & Jessop, D. S. A of childhood adversity from a range Psychoneuroendocrinology prospective study of diurnal cortisol of causes has been associated with 25(8), 819-836 (2000). responses to the social experience of school transition in four-year-old children: greater inflammatory responses and Gunnar, M. R. et al. Salivary cortisol levels in reduced life span in older age when anticipation, exposure, and adaptation. children adopted from Romanian Dev Psychobiol. 50(4), 377-389 (2008). combined with subsequent stress in orphanages. Development and life, such as caregiving (Kiecolt-Glaser Psychopathology 13(3), 611-628 (2001). Turner-Cobb, J. M., Rixon, L. & Jessop, D. S. et al., 2011). hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis Gunnar, M. R. & Vazquez, D. M. Low cortisol activity and upper respiratory tract and a flattening of expected daytime Finding out more infection in young children transitioning to rhythm: potential indices of risk in human primary school. Psychopharmacology In conclusion, there is some indication development. Development and (Berl), 214(1), 309-317 (2011). that changes in physiological Psychopathology 13(3), 515-538 (2001). functioning as a result of early life Vedhara, K. et al. Maternal mood and Gutteling, B. M. et al. Prenatal stress and neuroendocrine programming: effects physiological benefits to children in school may help stress hormone levels and disrupt there was a relationship between stress can become hardwired – and children’s cortisol reaction to the first day terms of fighting infection (Ball et al., prime the immune immunity to a degree which might more extroverted temperaments, resistant to returning to normal of time of exposure and sex. Journal of of school. Psychoneuroendocrinology Neuroendocrinology (in press) (2012). 2002). The consensus of work is that system but influence health? Early work in the the experience of social isolation even when environment improves chronic stress can 30(6), 541-549 (2005). high quality childcare does not have 1990s suggested this was the case and and higher cortisol, six months after in adulthood (Miller, 2007). Yet Weaver, I. C. et al. epigenetic programming be damaging to halligan, S. L. et al. exposure to postnatal negative effects on children in terms health. more recent work has found cortisol transition (Turner-Cobb et al., 2008). we do not know enough about the by maternal behavior. Nat Neurosci. 7, 847- depression predicts elevated cortisol in 854 (2004). of their physical or psychological at school transition to be elevated Prenatal stress has also been found to underlying mechanisms to conclude adolescent offspring. Biological health and in fact may confer in children with less preschool predict cortisol stress reactivity in five- that these are indeed irreversible. Psychiatry 55(4), 376-381 (2004). Wyrwoll, C. S. et al. Altered placental improved neurobiological outcomes, experience (Quas et al., 2002). year-olds starting their second year of There is clearly a need for early function of 11beta-hydroxysteroid harlow, h. F. & Zimmermann, R.R. with implications for physical health Our research group has conducted schooling (Gutteling et al., 2005). intervention in vulnerable or at risk dehydrogenase 2 knockout mice. Affectional responses in the infant in subsequent years. Work in our work examining cortisol levels In respect to health, we found children and intervention may prevent Endocrinology 150, 1287-1293 (2009). monkey; orphaned baby monkeys develop laboratory also suggests that in in children starting school at age that higher cortisol at school the pathological consequences of a strong and persistent attachment to Yehuda, R. et al. Childhood trauma and children whose mothers were less four (Turner-Cobb et al., 2008). transition was associated with fewer chronic glucocorticoid exposure inanimate surrogate mothers. Science risk for PTSD: Relationship to satisfied in their work, the experience Controlling for childcare experience, colds over the following six months, such as autoimmune disease, 130(3373), 421-432 (1959). intergenerational effects of trauma, of childcare may be beneficial in we found an anticipatory increase in indicating that the acute stress cardiovascular disease, and chronic parental PTSD, and cortisol excretion. preventing hypercortisol responses average diurnal cortisol levels up to associated with starting school may pain conditions in adulthood. Kapoor, A. et al. Fetal programming of Development and Psychopathology hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (hPA) (Chryssanthopoulou et al., 2005). six months before starting school, prime the immune system to develop The key questions now must 13(3), 733-753 (2001). axis function and behavior by synthetic Zimmermann, L. K. & Stansbury, K. The as well as an increase on starting – resistance to infection (Turner-Cobb address when a healthy stress glucocorticoids. Brain Res Rev. influence of emotion regulation, level of Starting school followed by an adaptive decline in et al., 2011). This fits with the idea that response in developing children 57, 586-595 (2008). The other key event for the majority cortisol levels six months later. while enduring or chronic stress may tips into a damaging one, and what shyness, and habituation on the of children in developed countries We also found associations between be damaging to health, acute stress the degree of plasticity is within Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K. et al. Childhood neuroendocrine response of three-year- adversity heightens the impact of is that of starting school. Does the higher cortisol and more extroverted may in some instances improve this extremely delicate balance of old children. Psychoneuroendocrinology later-life caregiving stress on telomere experience of starting school increase or impulsive temperaments. Finally, immune responses. neuroendocrine and immune factors. 29, 973-982 (2004).

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ere we present the 12 in August to pick the most striking Communication and Photography Catherine Draycott (Chair) – remarkable images shortlisted images depicting important biological Awards on the 16th October, as part of Head, Wellcome Images SocietY hin our 2012 photography issues from hundreds of entries. Biology Week 2012. Neil Aldridge – Conservation photo sponsored by Science competition. Open to amateur The winner, runner-up and highly photojournalist competition photographers only, this year’s commended entries for both the adult Linda Pitkin – Underwater competition theme was ‘How Biology and young photographer categories On the competition judging photographer 2012 in FocUS Can Save The World’. Judges met will be announced at the Science panel were: Sophie Stafford – Editor, BBC Wildlife

mohammad moniruzzaman md. Khalid rayhan shawon ➜ For a better tomorrow The rain – a source of Pictured: A graduate student drinking water ➜ involved in research on bloom Pictured: People reserving and forming algae in a microbial ecology drinking rain water. laboratory. “Photo taken at Gabura in “Throughout the world, algal Bangladesh, an island near populations cause massive blooms, Sundarbans, the biggest mangrove which sometimes cover thousands forest in the world. The village was of miles of sea or freshwater. washed away by Cyclone Aila in 2009. Understanding the dynamics of these After the cyclone, salt covered the blooms will help us manipulate them whole area and there is no drinking to fight the negative impacts of global and pure water. Everything is salty. warming and climate change.” One of the main sources of drinking Location: Aquatic Microbiology water in Gabura is rain.” Research Laboratory, University of Location: Gabura, Satkhira, Tennessee, Knoxville, USA Bangladesh

andi anshari ramon castillo preventing avian influenza ➜ ➜ Studying shrimps’ life cycle to combat hunger Pictured: Spraying disinfectant on Pictured: An advance research facility trying to grow poultry to prevent the spread of the shrimps in a recirculating aquaculture environment. avian influenza virus. “Successful recirculating aquaculture systems could one “From December 2003 outbreaks day revolutionise seafood production and will ensure food of highly pathogenic avian influenza security for humans the same way that farming did in the (H5N1) were reported in poultry early stage of human civilization. The facility does not populations in South-East Asia throw away water. Instead, using mechanical cleaners and and beyond. It affected a massive anaerobic bacteria, ammonia and other waste products are number of birds, chickens and duck cleaned and removed and the water reused. populations and eventually infected “Understanding the shrimps’ life cycle and the bacteria many people. In Indonesia, of the 188 and phytoplanktons needed to sustain this closed human cases reported since 2005, 156 environment is crucial for the commercial success of have been fatal.” the system.” Location: Poultry market in the city of Location: Jala Jala, Rizal, Philippines Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia

ana filipa scarpa Partha Pratim saha ➜ maternity, conservation of Fishing - traditional way ➜ the species Pictured: Fisherman casting with a Pictured: Growing dogfish traditional net. (Scyliorhinus canicula) embryos, the “Shilabati is a rain-fed river in Eastern work of technicians from the Vasco da India. Many fishermen depend on this Gama aquarium in Lisbon. river for fishing in the rainy season, “Using in vitro fertilisation, it is now but in the other seasons it dries up possible to repopulate the Portuguese completely. The fishermen are unable coast with the dogfish, which to use their boats in the shallow water currently has much lower numbers in these dry seasons, so they go down than expected. The technique can be to the river bed level and use hand extended to other species, which nets for fishing.” is very important and decisive for Location: Gangoni, West Bengal, the predicament of endangered India marine species.” Location: Vasco da Gama aquarium, Lisbon, Portugal

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William richardson ➜ The pollinator Pictured: Bee encrusted with pollen lavinia herath (age 18) at wildflower. Lichen on mission ➜ “The bee is without doubt the world’s Pictured: Lichens. most important pollinator of food “This photograph shows an crops and flora. The loss of the bee organism which has the capability would be catastrophic not only to the of detecting pollution levels in the economy but to ecosystems. environment. This lets people know “In the UK three of the native that they have to restore health bumblebee species have sadly become to the environment. It acts like an extinct and five others are currently environment health detector.” rated as a priority species requiring Location: A bridge in Cardiff, Wales urgent protection from extinction. There are very few wild colonies of bees remaining in the UK, and those under the management of beekeepers YoUnG are also under threat from a virus photoGRApheR spread by the varroa parasitic mite.” oF the YeAR Location: Fulham, London nomineeS

ziamel abbygaile m zacarias (age 8) ➜ mangrove seedlings for life Wong chi Keung Pictured: A woman preparing Farming the sea ➜ seedlings of mangrove trees to be Pictured: Producing biofuel from planted at the nearby seashore. seaweed to reduce global warming. “By planting mangroves, the Mangrove “Seaweed is a type of algae. It converts Eco-park will be the home of different sunlight, water and carbon dioxide fish to help keep species in the area.” into sugars through photosynthesis, Location: Bakhawan Eco-park, Kalibo, and the sugars are then metabolised Aklan, Philippines to produce oil. This oil can be collected and used as an alternative fuel source to run anything from a lawn mower to a commercial airliner. A benefit of using algae to produce fuel is the high level of carbon dioxide the algae pulls from the air when producing oil – higher than that produced by many other plants.” Location: Fujian, China

ricardo randall Jessica White (age 17) ➜ Within the seed Weathering crops ➜ Pictured: An Arabidopsis embryo Pictured: A food crop growing seen within the intact seed coat. upwards despite the recent weather. The embryo is visualised using “The weather around the world is fluorescence confocal microscopy. becoming more challenging. People “By imaging seeds this way, we debate whether or not it is because can obtain information about the of global warming. Whether it is or it cellular structure of embryos that isn’t, biology can help to develop crops lack certain genes. This can tell us which can cope with extreme weather. why plants lacking certain genes This is important as we have a might germinate sooner or later than growing population and many people normal. This is important in order to are going hungry. This particular crop feed the rapidly growing population – was growing well despite some of the early germination of seeds can lead to worst early summer rainfall we have farmers having to throw away a lot of seen in the UK.” their produce.” Location: A field outside Horsham, Location: Cardiff University Sussex, England

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SpotLiGht on ZooLoGY At A GLAnce What is zoology? is critical to humans as well as valued by many employers, including camera trap Zoology is the scientific study of animals. Zoology enables us to data handling, analytical skills, and inteRVieW technology animals, including how they behave, better understand wildlife and our both laboratory and field research captured this reproduce, evolve and interact with their environment and – by studying experience. What do you do? candid shot environment. It is sometimes known behaviour, evolution and higher An A-level in biology is often I use camera-trap technology to of a leopard. as animal biology or ‘whole organism mammals – ourselves. essential to get onto a zoology help monitor and research rare or biology’ in contrast to other branches of or animal biology degree. Most endangered species. At the moment biology that specifically study life at the What careers are available? universities offer a three year course, we are developing a project called cellular or molecular level. Zoology graduates are employed though some offer four year courses ‘Instant Wild’ which sends you an It can be broken down into in a wide range of career areas, with a year’s industrial placement. email of the picture every time a numerous sub-disciplines based including conservation, environmental There are also joint honours courses, name camera trap is triggered. on the study of particular types of and wildlife management, tourism, with related and completely unrelated Olivia Needham Previously you might have 20 animal: ornithology (the study of medical research, veterinary sciences, subjects. According to The Complete profession cameras running for six months, and birds), primatology (the study of animal ecology, the media, teaching, University Guide, employment Conservation at the end you would have hundreds primates) or ichthyology (the study and science policy. prospects are good and Imperial is technology of thousands of images on a card of fish) to name a few. It is a complex Jobs are available with a variety the highest ranking university that project that someone had to go through and broad subject encompassing a of organisations in the public, offers zoology as a specific degree. coordinator, and analyse. It could be very labour range of related disciplines and fields, private and not-for-profit sectors. Zoological intensive and, before you knew it, including ecology, conservation, Typical employers include zoos Where can i find out more? Society of your report was on a survey that was taxonomy, palaeontology, genetics and wildlife parks; government The Zoological Society of London is an London a year old. With disappearing species and evolutionary biology. agencies; environmental and animal international scientific, conservation Qualifications we can’t afford to have that time lag, charities; science centres, libraries and educational charity. Its research BSc so this technology allows us to start Why is it important? and museums; and universities and division, the Institute of Zoology, environmental analysing the data while the survey is zoology is Zoological institutions often focus research institutes. specialises in scientific projects and studies, still going. www.zsl.org sometimes known their efforts on the conservation of training related to the conservation of University pretty incredible, like when you spot a lot of, what’s running out, what’s as animal biology animal species and their habitats. how do i get into a career in zoology? animal species and their habitats. of Redlands, What does a typical day involve? a leopard in an area where one has a priority. We need to find more and concerns the California. study of all kinds Preserving and balancing delicate Studying for a degree in zoology I’m mostly office based, but I’m never been pictured, ever. efficient ways to understand wildlife of species. ecosystems and biodiversity provides many transferable skills Website www.zsl.org Masters in in constant communication with and I think technology is the best Conservation our teams in the field – Mongolia, What is it about your work that way to do that. at UCL Indonesia, Guinea, Kenya, Saudi motivates you? We also spot poachers – I see a lot interests Arabia. I help the teams with their I think it’s our lack of knowledge of photos featuring people with guns. The use of survey designs and with setting up about where species occur. It really It’s good to be able to keep up to date technology for the technology – determining, for inhibits conservation work if we are with what’s going on in an area researching example, the best way to position and ignorant about which populations are in real time. species in locate the cameras. where and which ones are in decline. conservation I spend a lot of time looking at and It’s like a business – you have to Do you remember when or why identifying pictures. A lot of them are understand your stock – what there’s you decided you wanted to study zoology? I remember taking an environmental studies course in high school. It focused on indicator species and ecosystems. It just really hit home how everything is connected and how important something like a honeybee We need to is for things like pollination and find more our food. efficient ways to Do you think zoology attracts a understand certain type of person? wildlife It’s not strictly a research discipline – and I think it’s about understanding lots of technology interconnected things, and how animals interact with humans. is the best So I think a deep understanding way to of socio-economic issues and how do that things are connected is important, as well as having a bit of a campaigning streak.

40 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 41 our regular round-up of books A Life Scientist’s complex patterns. Such analysis can Simplexity: published in the Guide to physical be applied to a wide range of ecological Simplifying Simplexity fields of biology chemistry scenarios such as predictors of fish principles for a “This book and related sciences marc R Roussel shoals or bird flock locations, complex World explores the cambridge pollination patterns of GM crops or Alain Berthoz nature of Reviews University Press, grazing hotspots of various mammals. yale University decision- £35.00 This is the first book devoted to this Press, £25.00 making that new and evolving field. goes well As in science itself, inadequacies in Part I is on the Wandering If you have ever wondered how beyond the the didactics of textbooks can be a Albatross, cautioning the use of certain complex decisions come realm of powerful spur to innovation. They spurious data yet recognising that naturally to you and yet you can stand management A tour of the certainly played a role in the genesis of such errors may indirectly lead to in the washing-up liquid aisle for and other Senses: how Marc Roussel’s portrayal of physical innovative hypotheses. Data collected hours without making a choice, then social Your Brain chemistry. Shortly after he began to from both marine and terrestrial host this book is for you. sciences” interprets teach at the University of Lethbridge, organisms are presented in Part II. Simplexity explores the nature of the World Canada, in 1995, he realised that Part III adds more detail to the decision-making that goes well John m henshaw existing texts contained few examples book’s various theories and Part IV beyond the realm of management and John hopkins appropriate for biochemists, while the gives some wider applications, other social sciences. It travels to the University Press, best books were out of print. So he set including submarine warfare, core of our evolutionary history and £15.50 about writing his own. Now published, enzymatic searches on DNA, and eye explores why, by creating what It was Aristotle who first wrote in the book will find grateful audiences movements. The final chapter touches Berthoz calls ‘simplex’ decisions, we detail about ‘the five senses’ and throughout the life sciences. on whether our perception of free will are able to navigate the complex suggested that because there were Using only the most straightforward is really more closely analogous to the world we live in with relative ease. only five sense organs there couldn’t and relevant mathematical techniques relatively limited autonomous Berthoz builds a compelling story be a sixth sense. (unlike some of those earlier, movement choices made by the using examples from architecture, John Henshaw is a professor of unsatisfactory accounts), Roussel simplest of microorganisms. music, perception and spacial mechanical engineering and he shows how the tools of physical This small volume has plenty of information throughout the book and describes the senses in three chemistry can illuminate biological examples to maintain readability yet is always makes his case with clarity categories: stimulus (what we detect issues. The breadth of his perspective balanced with solid background and succinctness. I enjoyed the small Pollination is a with our senses), sensation (how our stretches across 350 exercises theory. It would be an asset to sections which made the structure classic example of bodies are equipped to receive interspersed in the text, covering ecologists who are less familiar with distinct, yet did not stop the flow of how organisms can interact and different kinds of information), and topics as diverse as radiocarbon statistical physics methods seeking to the argument. is covered in perception (how we comprehend dating, world population growth, the explain or predict animal movements. This book brings together some of The Physics what we sense). He helps us to freezing of a turkey, and the spherical alexander Waller cbiol msb the finest research in the field of of Foraging. understand the science and pellets that can form when fungi grow

© Alex Wilson/RBGe © Alex technology behind the work being in liquid media. done in sensory research today. Although conversational in style We are probably most familiar (“cooking times on packages of pasta pictUReSQUe pLAntS with some unusual sensory abilities are appropriate to sea-level cooking in other animals (such as echo- since most of the population of North Green Universe: A microscopic are included to highlight the impact of locating by bats, and the perception America lives much closer to sea level Voyage into the plant cell the environment on plant evolution. of UV radiation by honeybees and than I do”), this is a rigorous, Stephen Blackmore The pictures are so good that they infrared by boa constrictors), but authoritative and yet remarkably Papadakis, £35.00 could be criticised for distracting from Henshaw explores some unusual up-to-date piece of work. It will be Once in a while a book grabs the the extensive information contained in areas, like the saline sensitivity of particularly enticing for biochemistry attention and possesses a serious this serious and well-constructed text. the narwhal’s tusk and the Scoville and molecular biology students, and ‘wow’ factor. And not just for me – my The book transcends the coffee scale for the ‘hotness’ of peppers. seems destined to go through many Green non-biologist wife grabbed Stephen table, providing undergraduates with He has an easy-to-read style and he more editions in future. Universe – Blackmore’s sumptuously illustrated a grounding in key aspects of whole moves effortlessly from discussing Dr bernard Dixon obe A Microscopic volume and devoured the illustrations plant biology. The text is accessible human physiology to controlling a Voyage into on their aesthetic appeal alone. The and key terminology is supported Nintendo Wii. the physics of the Plant Cell range of pictures, such as Alex within the glossary. Its contents are He uses examples of common Foraging “Once in a Wilson’s Nelumbo nucifera (above), sensibly organised into eight sections perception defects in people that he Gandhimohan m while a book covers the entire scale of observable that are directly related to the tree knows. As he explains, “much of what Viswanathan, et al grabs the features of plants; indeed it is based on of life’s living and extinct groups we know about perception comes cambridge attention and the author’s assertion “we humans are of organisms. from studies of the abnormal.” Some University Press, possesses essentially visual animals”. Other insights range from the people with otherwise good hearing £30.00 a serious At the smallest level, exquisite history of microscopy to the diversity are unable to detect changes in pitch ‘wow’ factor” electron micrographs (transverse and of plant cells, and extend to (amusia) in music, which brought to Biological encounters between scanning) celebrate the sculptured reproductive, taxonomic and mind one university chancellor who organisms include processes such as surfaces of diatoms, pollen and evolutionary plant science. It offers only recognised that the national mating, predation, grazing and aboVe epidermal tissues. Luxurious light further reading and a comprehensive anthem was being played because the pollination, among others. The a greatly micrographs emphasise the diversity index. A must-have, fabulous book audience was standing up. This is an movement between loci of either the magnified Nelumbo nucifera of cell adaptations, and marvellous that will appeal to anyone with an interesting book – an ideal gift for searcher or target organism can be as pictured in the macro images of plants illustrate their interest in life science. young biologists. tracked and analysed mathematically book. constituent components. Panoramas nicky souter fsb alan cadogan fsb to compare apparently random and

42 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 43 ReVIeWS BOOKS

cognitive science, town planning, and this doesn’t do that. and highly enjoyable to read. Spotila’s eventful and sometimes Principles of anatomy, physics and many more. Students can click through to the The author, Dr Robin Hesketh, is a hazardous interactions with poachers Biology Simplexity is a joy to read for both entire Nature Publishing Group of cancer biologist of some repute and have helped him realise that turtle “Why the subject specialist and the lay online journals, so you could regard has worked at the biochemistry conservation works best on a local purchase person alike. the purchase price as a subscription. department at Cambridge University scale, building strong relationships this rehana Jawadwala But there are so many competing for over 25 years. He has personally with the people who share the land and resources, all at the click of a mouse or worked with many of the key players in sea with them. As a result the author ‘interactive principles of Biology (interactive the tap of your finger. So, is this a useful the story of cancer treatment and has been able to persuade poachers textbook’ textbook) resource? Or is it a reminder of how relates many tales from the front line. and fishermen to tag adult turtles and when the nature education (editors) education is being commercialised? The book is divided into four main to leave at least some turtle egg information nature, Price n/a Why purchase this, when the sections. In part one Hesketh explains clutches on the beaches. is so widely This is a wide-ranging resource and it information is so widely available, the history of cancer and cancer Saving Sea Turtles will be enjoyed available, in was intriguing to roam its pages in other forms, elsewhere on the web? research. Parts two and three explain by all who have an interest in turtles other forms, online. But the inadequacies of the Professor brian J ford fsb the basics of how cells should normally and conservation. The delightful elsewhere modern syllabus are exemplified by divide and grow and then what goes touch of drawing a baby turtle in the on the web?” this textbook’s contents: there is much Betrayed by wrong with various bits of molecular margin of each page (so that it about DNA and ion channels, but nature: the machinery in cancerous cells. In part appears to swim as you flick through nothing about how to identify the War on cancer four we learn about the detection and the pages) illustrates the author’s plants and animals students see Dr Robin hesketh treatment of the disease and where we engaging humour. This is an uplifting around them. Palgrave are going in the future. book from an inspirational biologist The reason people become macmillan, I suspect this book is primarily and ultimately it is encouraging and biologists is often down to a book, or an £16.99 intended for those who have suffered motivating for readers. inspirational teacher. In this site there from cancer and want to understand susan omar msb James spotila is nothing that titillates the mind, no One wet afternoon in 2008, a scientist what has happened to their bodies. presents a memorable aphorism. It is, instead, a sat down to try and explain all that we But Hesketh does such a good job Understanding remarkably collation of tersely expressed facts and know about cancer. It turned out to be explaining the fundamentals of cell Autism: parents, detailed and figures. To someone versed in the life a bigger task than he first thought but, biology (often without the reader Doctors, and the passionate portrayal of sciences who wants to look something four years later, we can all be glad realising that he has done so) that history of a turtles’ lives in up, it could work well. Biology books, that he stuck at it and produced a book anybody, from GCSE students to Disorder Saving Sea Turtles. though, need to excite the imagination that is both thoroughly informative senior clinical biochemists, will find chloe Silverman something of interest in this highly Princeton University recommended tome. Press, £24.95 Dr oliver Jones cbiol msb What’s love got to do with it? This is the question Chloe Silverman asks in her Saving compelling historical and sociological Scholarship like Silverman’s pharmaceuticals and environmental The discovery that Sea turtles account of autism from the 1950s to reminds us not only of the social oestrogens. peregrine falcon eggshells were James R Spotila the present day. Drawing on archival aspects of biomedicine, but also of the Wildlife Ecotoxicology might look being thinned by The John hopkins research, interviews, ethnographic significant ethical, legal and clinical like heavy going but is actually much pesticides is a University Press, observation, and discourse analysis of implications of health-related science more accessible than most collections classic case study £13.00 a multitude of texts (research articles, and practice – the MMR debate being of research papers. The editors asked presented in correspondence, newspaper stories, just one of several examples dealt with contributors to describe the science Wildlife Ecotoxicology. blog posts), Silverman shows with in this excellent book. behind their topic and the human meticulous detail how practices of Dr martyn Pickersgill msb stories behind the science, and this Passionate about sea turtles and their caring – and indeed love – intertwine approach generally works well. survival, author James Spotila conveys with autism research and practice. Wildlife Stories are told, both environmental an infectious enthusiasm which hooks In fact, her argument is more ecotoxicology: and human, that should open up the the reader from the start. He tells us powerful than that: in exquisite Forensic subject to a broader audience. that it’s not too late to make the world empirical detail Silverman shows how Approaches Examples include the use of tree a better place if we each do our bit – love helped to define the disorder itself. John elliott, christine swallows in the US and roach in UK “one turtle at a time, and one person She examines how this emotion Bishop & christy rivers to gauge contamination; at a time”. animated and powered the scientific morrissey (eds.) restoration of the most contaminated Professor of biology at Drexel and clinical innovations that helped to springer, £117.00 square mile on earth (where 20,000 University, USA, Spotila certainly shape what we now call ‘autism’. In so Many readers will be familiar with duck deaths were recorded in the practices what he preaches. In his doing, Silverman’s work sits alongside the story of the peregrine falcon and 1950s); the forensic work needed to remarkably detailed and passionate other important histories of the search for the cause of its decline explain breeding failure among portrayal of turtles’ lives, he tells us of psychiatric categories. across Europe and North America alligators in Florida’s Lake Apopka; and his hard work and adventures over the These histories are all the more in the 1960s. The discovery by Derek what brought the vultures of southern years as he has battled to save the important to consult as the American Ratcliffe that exposure to Asia to the brink of extinction. creatures across the world. Every page Psychiatric Association – amidst much organochlorine pesticides led to By bringing both the peregrine reveals his commitment to the cause, controversy, and with antagonism thinned eggshells is presented here as falcon and vulture stories together, yet the author shows remarkable from patients and professionals both a foundation stone in the development we get a real sense of how the field empathy and understanding towards sides of the Atlantic – finalises the fifth of the discipline of wildlife has changed over the last 50 years people who poach or traditionally use edition of its seminal Diagnostic and ecotoxicology, and the volume brings and appreciate the ongoing need turtles and their eggs (cooked turtle Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders us up to date with old pollutants that for dedicated ecotoxicologists. eggs, he tells us, never coagulate, so (DSM, or psychiatry’s ‘bible’ as it’s are still around, current pesticides, Highly recommended. remain as slimy globs). often known). and newer issues such as Dr ian Powell

44 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 45 Advertisement: World’s rarest plants in danger Advertisement:Advertisement: World’s rarest plants in danger Scientists issue warning about Scientiststhe mounting scale issue of destruction warning about of the world’s most important botanical habitat – now only 4% of the original habitat remains 8th10th December October 2012: 2011: A A global global appeal appeal has has been been launched launched to purchase an initial 1,000 acresacres containingcontaining thethe greatestgreatest concentration of rare plant species on Earth inin thethe highlyhighly Photo: Heiner Lutzeyer 15 fynbos plant species per square mile are in danger of extinction, and this is in a habitat which threatened but little known fynbos habitat.habitat. has been reduced by 96% from land clearance, alien plants and building. Conservationists from Fauna & Flora way for vines or cattle, hangs heavy most endangered plants grow. special environment they live in – an International (FFI) have surveyed the over the region. Secondly, they will provide em- important investment in the future. areas where the rarest fynbos plants Now only 4% of the original habi- ployment to local people who might Rather than seeking work in ani- grow and are now seeking donations tat remains. otherwise be involved in the destruc- mal herding, where rare plants will to purchase 1,000 acres. Some of the plant species needing tion of fynbos for their livelihood. either be eaten by goats or cleared Help is now being specifically Help is now being specifically protection are so unique that they Work like clearing alien species and entirely for grass, children are seeing sought from Biologist readers to pre- only exist in a tiny area. sustainably harvesting some species that a living can be made through vent the destruction of this place that The conservation work of Fauna will play a major role in conserva- sustainably harvesting fynbos. scientists have designated as the most & Flora International is crucial to the tion. (In contrast to past uncontrolled The FFI team in Overberg, South important botanical habitat on Earth. survival of Polhillias and thousands harvesting which destroyed many Africa are eagerly awaiting the Readers are urged to use the of other species. rare plants.) outcome of this appeal. With enough coupon attached or to call the fynbos Without the help of Biologist There is also an Early Learning help thousands more rare plant spe- hotline on +44 (0)1223 431991 to readers these ultra rare species, like Centre at a project that FFI already cies can be saved. help buy 1,000 acres, which will help Polhillias, will become extinct. funds. Flower Valley Early Learn- £35 could help buy one acre. prevent the loss of this endangered Alarmingly, within the 1,000 acres ing Centre caters for the children of £5,500 is also sought through dona- plant species. that Fauna & Flora International is workers who sustainably harvest fyn- tionstions toto protect protect the the Eastern Eastern Rŭens Rŭens The fynbos habitat in which they appealing for help to buy, 15 plant bos. Here the children are given an Shale Renosterveld where four out of grow is known to gardeners and con- species are in danger of extinction environmental-based education. This the seven known species of Polhillia servationists but few others. Fynbos per square mile. helps them to grow up understand- occur – all four are either vulnerable is found only in a small area of South With more fynbos species listed ing the importance of protecting the or Critically Endangered. Africa around Table Mountain. in the Red Data Book (the global list Yet, it has a higher concentration of threatened species) than anywhere “I am proud to be associated of plant species than the Amazon – or else on the planet, this area is in anywhere else on Earth. desperate need of protection – and with what I regard as the ButHelp fynbos isis rapidly now vanishing being un- specificallyvoluntary donations are the only way doyen of all conservation Help is now being specifically der a combined attack from farming, it will be protected. societies.” forestry, building, and invasive alien It is astonishing that 70% of plants plant species. that grow in this small area of South Sir David Attenborough OM FRS

The pall of smoke, which signals Africa grow nowhere else. But the Photo: Gill Shaw FFI Vice-President more fynbos is being burnt to make pressure on land here is immense. Land is cleared for dairy farming Cut this coupon to help buy 1,000 acres of the and big wine companies are rip- most important botanical habitat on Earth or go to ping up vast areas of fynbos to plant www.FFIfynbos.org or call 01223 431991. vines. Then there is pressure for new homes. I will give: All this is happening in the world’s £35 to help buy and protect one acre most important botanical habitat, My choice of contribution is £______which has a unique scientific value (Multiples of £35 will be received with much thanks as they whichfor twohas maina unique reasons. scientific value will enable us to protect many more acres). Firstly, the fynbos plants are rem- £5,500 could help protect the area where Polhillias grows, the incredibly nants from a much earlier era when rare group of four related plants species, that exist no where else. Earth’s landmass was unified in one Title First name Last name Photo: Odette Curtis giant continent. Earth’s landmass was unified in one Address tions to protect the Eastern Rŭens Polhillias: A plant genus where Secondly, there are five plant king- tions to protect the Eastern Rŭens four out of the seven known Secondly,doms in the there world are (groups five plant of plants king Postcode that share similar characteristics) species survive in a tiny area that Email Phone No needs purchasing and protecting and this Western Cape region of in its entirety. South Africa is the only one where I enclose a cheque payable to Fauna & Flora International OR I wish to pay by credit/debit card Fauna & Flora International is the plants are contained not just in Type of card: Visa/Amex/Mastercard/Maestro/CAF seeking £5,500 to help protect the one continent but also in one small region. Eastern Rŭens Shale Renosterveld Card No: where four of the seven known The high number of species is due Eastern Rŭens Shale Renosterveld (Maestro species of Polhillias exist – they are to a wide variety of microhabitats re- Start Date: Expiry Date: Issue Number only): found nowhere else on the planet. sulting from the range of elevations, (Last three digits next The species are listed as Critically soils and climatic conditions, includ- 3 digit security code: to the signature) Today’s date: Endangered or vulnerable. This ing the co-existence of winter-rainfall Please return to: FREEPOST RRHG-GBGG-CAGG, small poorly known genus con- species with summer-rainfall species. Fauna & Flora International, Fynbos Emergency Appeal, Jupiter House, Station Road, Cambridge, CB1 2JD. sists of very attractive grey-green Gifts from readers will help in many ways to put into place a plan to You can call 44(0) 1223 431991 to donate now. shrubs, usually with thin, trifoliate, Or go to: www.FFIfynbos.org to donate online. silky leaves and typical yellow protect more areas of fynbos. Firstly, Or text FYNB 11 followed by the amount you wish to give to 70070. they will help to directly protect Fabaceae (pea) flowers. Registered Charity No.1011102. Registered Company No. 2677068. PR-FYNTB 1,000 acres of fynbos, where the Fabaceae (pea) flowers.

which has a unique scientific value which has a unique scientific value

Earth’s landmass was unified in one Earth’s landmass was unified in one

Secondly, there are five plant king Secondly, there are five plant king

Eastern Rŭens Shale Renosterveld Eastern Rŭens Shale Renosterveld

Fabaceae (pea) flowers. Fabaceae (pea) flowers. member news Our regular round-up all about you, our Society members

neW member Profile Social ice cooL notices matthew Bennett FSB members’ and Fellows’ lunches

Our chief executive, Dr Mark Downs, will be holding informal sandwich lunches with groups of 40-50 members and smaller groups of 10-15 Fellows. The lunches provide members with the opportunity to discuss current biological issues and the Society’s overall direction, as well as to meet other members. You must be a MSB or Fellow to attend. Places are available on a first come, first served basis. To reserve your place, please contact Zoë Martin on 020 7685 2564 or email zoemartin@ My first love is glacial geology – I was invited to become a Fellow of societyofbiology.org reconstructing ice age landscapes the Society and saw the opportunity using modern glacial analogues My first to support biosciences and to 8 november derived from research in the High love is exchange ideas with others passionate Members’ Lunch – London Arctic. In fact I spent the first 10 years glacial about science. 12:30-14:00 of my career devoted to this pursuit, geology but Charles Darwin house but in the last 10 years I’ve moved into in the last 10 I like to spend as much time as very different research focused on the years I’ve possible in mountain landscapes and 20 november evolution of human gait. have recently taken up painting. Fellows’ Lunch – London moved into 12:30-14:00 In 2009 I was part of a team that research Charles Darwin house discovered the second oldest human on the footprint, situated in northern Kenya. evolution of My passion for research, and human gait specifically all aspects of the natural world, was inspired by a youth spent on the mountains and hills of North Wales.

I am pro vice chancellor for research, enterprise and internationalisation at Bournemouth University. Before that I was Dean of the School of Applied Sciences, but in truth I like to think of myself first and foremost as a researcher. I trained as a geographer in London in the mid-1980s and did my doctoral research in glacial geology at Edinburgh.

Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 47 MeMBeR NeWS NeW MeMBeR PROFILeS/NeW MeMBeRS LIST

member Profiles Support your local branch our branches rely on your support. if you would like to give a careers talk at your local school or help with public engagement activities then get in touch with them – contact details Rebecca handley AmSB Dr prem Bajaj mSB James Boyle mSB Alice George FSB on page 51. I’ve always been interested in I am an associate physician and pain I work as a quality adviser for My first job, as a research assistant science fiction, so having a career in management expert at the Scottish Water. I test drinking water studying the genetics of wild horses science seemed logical – the hard part Breakspear Medical Group in Hemel for our microbiology, Cryptosporidium and zebra at the Institute of Zoology, was narrowing it down to a specific Hempstead. The majority of my work and technical support departments. London Zoo, was a dream come true. scientific discipline. involves the assessment and treatment of patients with allergic and I’ve always been interested in the My inspiration is my paternal aunt, At college I noticed I had an affinity environmental diseases, including natural world, particularly birds. Wilma George, who was a geneticist at for biology, so chose to study chronic fatigue syndrome, Visiting a microbiology department Oxford University. She gave me a book Let us know microbiology at the University of East fibromyalgia, autoimmune conditions, within a Scottish hospital and she’d written on Gregor Mendel and Anglia. Now I’m just over halfway chemical and food sensitivity and receiving a microscope for Christmas the seed was sown. through a PhD at the Institute of chronic infections. got me hooked on the world of Food Research in the Norwich microbes. I graduated from Paisley I work at LabPlus in Auckland, New your Research Park. For me, the most inspirational University with an honours degree in Zealand. As technical head of biologist was Professor Jacques biology with microbiology. diagnostic genetics, my job is both expertise My research interests are how Miller of Melbourne University, managerial and academic; I am bacteria survive and respond to known as the modern ‘father’ of Developing genetic techniques to responsible for the day-to-day running We are committed to providing the media, public, government environmental stress, and I’m immunology for his 1960s studies on identify pathogens in drinking of the department and also the and other policy makers with a distinct point of access to currently investigating the survival thymus and the discovery of T and B water is exciting. In 30 years we have interpretation of results, publication of authoritative, independent, and evidence-based opinion, mechanisms of the food-borne cells. Miller’s work still forms the basis progressed from being unable to papers, moderation and examination representative of the widest range of bioscience disciplines. in pathogen . of new strategies for producing identify pathogenic of university papers, and presentation Campylobacter jejuni Cryptosporidium order to do this effectively, it is vital we maintain an up-to-date I am also a STEM ambassador, so vaccines, preventing organ rejection in drinking water to having filters, to my peers. and comprehensive record of expertise for all of our members. have a real passion for science and killing cancer cells. magnetic beads covered in crypto communication and promoting antibodies, and various specialised My academic background is a BSc in We have developed a new online area for members, called scientific outreach activities. Up until high school, I was always dyes to aid us in their identification. genetics from University College mysociety. here you can update your membership record with collecting insects and plants and was London followed by the Membership information about your expertise. This means that when the I joined the Society to follow new fascinated with the diversity of life. So I I suspect that within the next 10 of the Human Genetics Society of society is called upon for advice, we can identify the members developments in the biosciences. went on to complete a BSc in zoology years there will be real time Australasia examination. I then did a that are able to assist much more efficiently. The Society also has a great career with additional physics, followed by a microbiological testing built into postgraduate diploma in quality development programme and science medical degree and fellowship in water supply systems. There has systems, attained with distinction. I mysociety allows you to take complete control of your outreach resources. general medical practice in India. already been a lot of research in this was motivated to enter bioscience by membership – you can update your contact details, renew I later received further training in area and I think its application is not an innate interest in all living things your subscription, choose which e-newsletters to subscribe I love gadgets and live music, so when the UK and Europe, including a too far down the pipeline. and a passion for genetics. to, register to attend upcoming events, register with our cPD I’m not in the lab I’ll be at home on my MMedSci (clinical pathology) from programme and manage your development activities online, and Xbox 360 or out at a concert. Norwich Sheffield Medical School, an MSc in Sir David Attenborough inspires me The future of genetics is amazing – apply for our professional awards (including chartered status). is a really wonderful city for music and pain management from Wales School – he’s a proper legend. He has spent his I believe we only have a minimal entertainment. of Medicine, Cardiff, a PhD in life doing what everyone reading this understanding of just how huge this To see what information we currently have on file for you, log biomedical sciences from Aalborg would love to do. His passion for the field will be. Pharmacogenomics, on to mysociety using the link below. if this is your first time University and an MD from the subject draws adoration from everyone personalised genetics, curing the accessing mysociety, the text at the top of the mysociety University of Copenhagen. who watches his programmes. incurable and point of care testing… homepage will explain how to retrieve your password. if you have are we eventually going to pop into our any problems please don’t hesitate to contact a member of the I have also worked as a clinical I joined the Society for career GP for our whole exome genetic team at [email protected] or by calling researcher at the California Pacific progression. Within the next couple profile? 0844 858 9316. Medical Center in San Francisco, of years I think applicants will have to USA, and as the head of clinical be Chartered to be considered for I joined the Society in the hope of This is the first version of mysociety and we anticipate that there pathology in a large hospital in Saudi managerial roles. meeting like-minded people, being will be some changes over the coming months as members Arabia. I have enjoyed both teaching informed of developments in other continue to test the system. and working as a clinician for over I enjoy attempting to play 7-a-side areas of biology and keeping abreast of 35 years. football. I also enjoy bird watching, or current methodologies. at least the excuse it provides to myaccount.societyofbiology.org wander about in beautiful places.

48 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 49 BRAnch

For both East Midlands events contActS contact Marianne Overton at Scotland [email protected] BEDS, ESSEX & HERTS agm anD symPosiUm Mrs Jacqueline McPherson Branch events [email protected] ❱ Dates for your diary: what’s going on in your local area Saturday 17 November north Wales 10:00-12:30 The symposium theme will be DEVON & CORNWALL agm ‘Fighting Infection’ with guest Miss Christine Fry Thursday 8 November 19:30 speakers Dr Andrew Mearns Spragg [email protected] We will be holding a second AGM FSB (Aquapharm Biodiscovery), this year to align ourselves with the Professor Quintin McKellar FSB EAST ANGLIA Ashridge), £5 children. Telephone: end of the Society’s financial year. (University of Hertfordshire) and Miss Amanda Burton 01442 851227. Dr Julie Drew from RWE npower Professor Robert Masterton [email protected] renewables will be speaking on off- (University of the West of Scotland). general neTWorKing shore wind-power generation. Bod The Royal Society of Edinburgh, 22-26 EAST MIDLANDS meeTings Erw Hotel, St Asaph, Denbighshire. George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2PQ. Mrs Rosemary Hall Thursday 8 November & 6 December [email protected] 19:30-21:00 chrisTmas lecTUre Meetings will be on the first anD bUffeT Western KENT, SURREY & SUSSEX Thursday of the month, at The Buck’s Friday 7 December 19:30 Dr David Ware Head, Stevenage Road, Little Dr Peter Cunnington from Ness chrisTmas TalK anD lUnch kentsurreysussex@ Wymondley, Herts, SG4 7HY, unless Gardens will talk on collecting plants Thursday 13 December societyofbiology.org otherwise notified. There will be a from across the world in this year’s This is planned to take place at 10 minute talk, networking lecture, ‘Experiences of a Botanist in Langford Veterinary School again. LONDON opportunities and a light buffet. Asia’. Bod Erw Hotel, St Asaph, Further details TBC. Mr Ken Allen Denbighshire. [email protected]

Devon & cornwall Yorkshire NORTH WALES north Western Dr Rosemary Solbé VisiT To PaignTon zoo reTireD members meeTing [email protected] Friday 19 October 11:00 biology WeeK Thursday 8 November 12:00 As part of Biology Week, members sealife VisiT An opportunity for like- NORTH WESTERN and their guests are invited to Wednesday 24 October minded biologists and Mr Glenn Upton-Fletcher participate in an exclusive visit to 18:00-21:00 their partners to get [email protected] Paignton Zoo. This will involve a Senior aquarist together and raise issues behind the scenes opportunity to meet Martin Sutcliffe that may assist the NORTHERN keepers or other staff, ask questions and colleagues Yorkshire branch. Dr Michael Rowell a number of For more details and to book a place The fesTiVal of briTish frUiT and see parts of the zoo that most will conduct a We will meet at [email protected] ‘fungal forays’ on an event, see Branch Contacts, Sunday 21 October visitors are not allowed to access. behind the Farthings Restaurant, are coming up right, unless stated otherwise. All of the exhibition fruit from the There will be a charge of £20 for scenes tour at Leeds City College, NORTHERN IRELAND in the next few months, allowing National Fruit Show (left), along with members and £25 for non-members. Sealife in Thomas Danby Campus, Dr David Roberts members to take the juice, soft fruit and pumpkins This includes zoo entrance, food Blackpool, Roundhay Road, Leeds, [email protected] a guided tour of Beds, essex & herts from its schools’ competition can be throughout the day and special featuring the LS7 3BG. A cheque for £7 wild mushroom sampled and purchased at the opportunities. Arrive at 11:00 for tea, new research (there may be a small SCOTLAND and toadstool naTional frUiT shoW National Seed Bank on the coffee and biscuits – the introductory laboratory, the correction to this later) is Dr Jacqueline Nairn growths. There are forays Wednesday 17 & Thursday Saturday and Sunday. talk starts at 11:30. This event will be de-commissioning of the required to book. Bookings to [email protected] organised for 18 October The bank will also have limited to 40 participants. shark tank and the new Cliff Beddows, 6 Moorlands the beds, essex A key event for the Raymond Blanc turtle display. Gardens, Leeds, LS17 6JT or email THAMES VALLEY and herts, east horticulturalists development team Arrive at 17:30 for an 18:00 start. [email protected] Dr Michael Keith-Lucas midlands, and and interested cooking with old Buffet-style refreshments will be [email protected] north Western east midlands branches. parties at Kent varieties of root provided. This is free for members DeVeloPmenT in all Showground, vegetables. fUngal foray WiTh exPerT and their guests, but booking is DirecTions & agm WESSEX Detling, Maidstone, Jane osTler essential. Donations to a marine Saturday 10 November Ms Rachel Wilson Kent, ME14 3JF. On fUngal foray Sunday 28 October charity will be accepted on the night. This year’s annual symposium will be [email protected] Wednesday the show Sunday 21 October Jane Ostler gives a fascinating held in collaboration with the MRC opens from 10:00-17:30 13:30-15:30 account of the mushrooms and fUngal foray WiTh Centre for Developmental and WEST MIDLANDS and Thursday from Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre toadstools we find in Twyford Woods, DaVe WinnarD Biomedical Genetics at the Ms Debbie Dixon 10:00-15:30. is home to a variety of fungi, Colsterworth. Saturday 10 November University of Sheffield. Registration [email protected] including the spectacular but highly Our foray is in Tandle Hill, is £5 and 12 Society of Biology CPD agm poisonous fly agaric with its Donna nooK seal WaTch Manchester. This country park points are available for attendance at WESTERN Thursday 18 October distinctive red cap and white spots. Saturday 10 November includes approximately 110 acres this event. Contact branch Ms Joan Ashley As part of Biology Week, our AGM Join the Herts Fungus Group to See the seals with their pups and and possible sightings include committee member Mr Barry [email protected] will take place at the Royal discover this and many more species meet the wardens. This is an all-day shaggy inkcap and amethyst Canham for more information and Veterinary College, Royal College on this fascinating walk. meet and booking will be necessary. deceiver. The day will last four to an application form: email barry. YORKSHIRE Street, London, NW1 0TU. More Members can book on the branch Donna Nook, North Sutton-on-Sea, five hours and is free for members [email protected], or telephone Mr Paul Bartlett details to follow on the website. webpage. £8 adult (£7 Friends of Lincolnshire. and their guests. 01423 565106 or 07748671929. [email protected]

50 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 51 BRANCh NeWS eVeNT RePORTS

Highlights of the visit included the deadly Komodo dragons and the ancient giant tortoises. Also we heard how during World War II the Branch reports zoo was bombed six times, but the only animal to escape was a zebra – The first distinct clicks came at nature enthusiasts alike. A visit is which was found in Camden Town about 50KHz. By slowly changing the highly recommended. and herded back to the zoo. detecting frequency up to about amanda burton Finally, we ended up at the penguin 55KHz we identified the soprano pool, where we learnt penguins mate pipistrelle and by changing it to about for life and emperor penguins can 45KHz we concluded the common Kent, Surrey & Sussex dive to depths of 500 metres in pipistrelle was present. Through search of fish. the gaps in the trees we could see ranscombe farm reserVe We are very grateful to Pat the bats weaving and turning as 23 June 2012 Baxell, Rachel Arthey, Izzy Coulton they chased insects. This beautiful 560 acre spot on the and Eve Taylor of the zoo for giving We learnt that the common North Kent Chalk Downs is the the branch such a stimulating pipistrelle could catch up to 3,000 largest of charity Plantlife’s nature day out. insects in one night and Daubenton’s reserves in England, and was Dr cliff collis cbiol fsb bat (Myotis daubentonii) could gain designated a country park recently. 50% in weight in just an hour’s It is one of the most important committee and events appeal feeding on the wing. We were lucky to reserves in the country for rare and We are looking for new branch have a break in the weather and even threatened wild plants. Its working members. If you are interested in more fortunate to have dedicated farm has been an important getting involved by either joining experts on hand to tell us about these botanical site since the 18th century the committee or assisting with fascinating creatures. when the first British species of successfully released back into the was recorded and the unharmed bird This golden events, please contact Ken Allen at John alabaster fsb meadow clary and rough mallow wild. Before release the birds are released. The data was then y moth was [email protected]. were recorded here. fitted with Darvic tags and submitted to the British Trust for spotted on a visit to Pannel Valley east anglia The reserve is noted for its rich occasionally radio collared so that Ornithology, which maintains the nature reserve. members Beds, essex & herts east Anglia assemblage of species enjoying an they can be monitored and their ringing database in the UK. north Wales who visited arable habitat. Our Plantlife guide, eventual distribution recorded. From the hides we observed an lakenheath fen got to meet Jack, baT WalK laKenheaTh fen rsPb Richard Moyse, showed us the 57 Released birds have been confirmed interesting range of wetland birds anglesey WeTlanDs ProJecT a friendly young 22 June 2012 reserVe VisiT acre old set-aside, Brockles Field, as far away as Norway and Portugal. including terns, shelducks, black- 2 June 2012 jackdaw. On a stormy Friday night, a few 16 June 2012 which has been left unfarmed for Mallydams Wood is a 55-acre site headed gulls, tufted ducks, avocets Members met at The California pub staunch members gathered at Priory In 1995 Lakenheath Fen was a 740 many years to change into chalk bequeathed to the RSPCA 51 years and a bar-tailed godwit. There were at Brynteg, Anglesey, where the car Park, Bedford, under the guidance of hectare site of farmland, growing grassland. Bee, man and pyramidal ago by Horace Quick, a local also many lapwings who had, park had been taken over for the park ranger Danny Fellman, as well carrots between stands of poplar. orchids, wild liquorice and carline philanthropist. The wood is now reportedly, lost all their young this Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations. as Vivienne Heys, Kelly Robinson and Today it’s an RSPB reserve of rich thistle thrive here. maintained mainly by volunteers as year to a marauding badger. We then drove to the Cors Jo Rigby of the Bedfordshire Bat biodiversity, home to golden oriole, Finally, mention must be made of an educational resource to teach We returned to the ringers’ base Erddreiniog Reserve, Brynteg, part Group. The heavy rain earlier in the nesting marsh harriers, bearded tit, the chestnut, ash and hazel young people about wildlife and to examine the results of the of the Anglesey Wetlands Project. evening had given way to a blustering bittern, reed warbler, reed bunting woodland. Each year 12 acres is hopefully to encourage them to previous night’s light trap for moths. Les Colley, formerly of the members of the wind which, we were told, would and the recent colonising crane. coppiced, not only for fencing and cherish and protect wild creatures This yielded 30 different species, Countryside Council for Wales, Kent, surrey not deter the bats since they had David White, information officer firewood to provide income, but to in the future. including a non-melanic morph of led our visit with an excellent and and sussex young to nourish. for Lakenheath, led a fascinating protect rare woodland plants, David Ware cbiol fsb the peppered moth (Biston very knowledgeable guide. branch were As the last few black clouds walk. Before setting off David warned butterflies and birds. Anyone who betularia), a colourful elephant Notable species found included taken on a tour dispersed, we set off armed with us about ‘Jack’, a young jackdaw who has the opportunity should visit this Pannel Valley hawk moth, an obscure wainscot the native wild Aquilegia vulgaris, of the rsPca’s mallydams torches and detectors to amplify welcomes visitors. Sure enough after lovely part of the North Downs to naTUre reserVe and a beautiful golden Y moth. brooklime (Veronica beccabunga), rescue centre sounds at frequencies between 10 50 metres there was Jack, hopping on experience its many charms. 1 July 2012 David Ware cbiol fsb petty whin (Genista anglica), and its woods. and 120KHz. willing hands, shoulders and heads. Dr graham godfrey fsb Members and other enthusiasts spent bee-orchid (Ophrys apifera), fly We hadn’t anticipated being quite so an interesting and instructive morning orchid (O. insectifera), marsh orchid close to nature! rsPca mallyDams at the Pannel Valley Nature Reserve in London (Dactylorchis spp), an unusual Marsh harriers were seen hunting rescUe cenTre Icklesham, East Sussex, under the species of cotton grass (Eriophorum over the extensive reed beds after 5 August 2012 expert guidance of Ian Hunter, the lonDon zoo VisiT latifolium), round-leaved sundew another successful breeding season. Members and their friends and reserve’s conservation manager. 15 July 2012 (Drosera rotundifolia) and The reed beds are a tribute to back- families were shown around This site, owned and maintained Members were treated to a butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris). breaking work by volunteers, who Mallydams by its manager Dr Bel by the Wetland Trust, is an area of guided tour of the zoo by Amongst the fauna we planted 250,000 reeds by hand. It Deering. The site includes a rescue lakes, reed beds and marshland that our excellent guide, Eve encountered were palmate newt, was a bit windy so there were no centre where orphaned or injured was re-flooded 30 years ago to create Taylor. We learnt that hare and a kestrel looking out bearded tits flying, but there were wild animals are brought by members a natural habitat to attract bird life. the zoo was the first from its nest in a kestrel box. plenty of reed and sedge warblers of the public to be examined by a vet It is also the UK’s largest bird modern zoo of its Insects included speckled wood singing and a cuckoo. and, where possible, treated. ringing site, and our morning started day; it has 13 listed and dingy skipper. Thanks to the walk we now fully Last year some 3,000 animals with a demonstration. The first bird to buildings and is Finally we meandered back to the appreciate the conservation efforts were received – herring gulls most be caught was a female blue tit which credited with cars and drove back to The California shaping the reserve now and into the commonly. Around 40% of the was expertly removed from the net, inventing the word for a very late lunch. It was an future. In 17 years Lakenheath has animals received – collared doves, weighed, measured and examined. As ‘aquarium’ from aqua- interesting and very pleasant day. become a magnet for birders and hedgehogs, swans and bats – are it had already been ringed, its number vivarium. rosemary solbé cbiol fsb

52 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 53 BRANCh NeWS eVeNT RePORTS

release enzymes from its roots which Jessica Sutton of Dr Thomlinson north Western digest detritus in the soil is surely Church of England Middle School for more than acceptable given their her project ‘How Well Does Your manchesTer UniVersiTy stage in development. Mind Remember Passages of mUseUm The winning team (and not for the Writing?’ where she explored how 12 May 2012 first time) was Lancaster Girls size and colour of type influenced Our AGM was held at the prestigious Grammar, winning a superb recollection of text. Manchester University Museum. microscope for their school and michael rowell cbiol fsb We’ve had another good year of books for each team member. events and activities, we’re solvent mike clapham fsb and we have a couple of new officers Wessex on the branch committee: welcome to Glenn Upton-Fletcher, new northern DiscoVer oceanograPhy secretary, and Jo Gillespie, new 26 May 2012 student representative. The big bang norTh easT Wessex were all aboard the RV We were treated to two ‘behind the 4 July 2012 Callista in May for a voyage of scenes’ tours. First David Gelsthorpe, Once again we judged entries for discovery in Southampton Water. curator of earth science, gave us an The Big Bang young scientists and The sun shone while staff aboard the enthusiastic insight into the world of engineers fair at Newcastle Callista walked members through fossils, from trilobites and pliosaurs to University. The Society of Biology various sampling techniques and insects and spiders preserved in amber. prize was awarded to a team of five allowed us to get hands on measuring Next, Rachel Webster, curator of girls from Sir Thomas More Catholic temperature and salinity profiles and botany, showed us the collections of School for a project entitled ‘Take a depth of transparency. The heavy three important Victorian botanists. Deep Breath’, a study of lung capacity work was carried out by the crew The immense legacy left by these after exercise. when deploying the beam trawl and passionate Victorians is now an An appropriate project for an sediment grabs, but the hauls were invaluable resource for analysing Olympic year, participants ran a set put out for everyone to dig through. changes in distribution and distance after which their lung A plankton net was also deployed morphology of plant species all capacity was measured. Those who to pick up the microscopic plants and over the world. Wessex played wind instruments or were animals that are so important to the We also saw examples of the members keen participants in sport had food chain, which were examined exquisite and larger than life enjoyed a greater lung capacity than the less under the microscope in the onboard botanical models manufactured by fascinating trip active. The group’s display included lab for all to see. A video clip of what on the rV callista father and son team Robert and in may to study charts, graphs and simulated lungs we discovered can be found on the Reinhold Brendel in the late 1800s. microscopic linked to an air pump. Wessex branch page of the website. But the highlight was the astonishing sea life. Second prize was awarded to rachel Wilson engravings of plant microstructure in the book Anatomy of Plants by the ‘father of plant physiology’ Nehemiah Grew, printed in 1682. All in all a captivating and rewarding experience, reminding us of the invaluable work carried out day in, day out by our museums. mike clapham fsb schools QUiz 20 June 2012 Yet another successful School’s Quiz at the University of Central Lancashire. Teams of A level students were challenged to answer questions and puzzles on a wide range of topics. It is the ‘wrong’ answers that sometimes provide the most gratifying evidence of young biological minds in the making. In one question students were shown images of dwarf lousewort (Pedicularis centranthera) and asked to explain how it generates food resources given the inadequacy of its meagre foliage. The ‘correct’ answer is that it is a parasite and steals nutrition from tree roots. But a suggestion that it may

54 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 CALLING ALL UNDERGRADUATES & GRADUATES!

Explore your career options in research, industry, science policy and more. We have presentations on a range of science-related careers, a CV workshop and the chance meet experts in our exhibition. Lunch and afternoon refreshments included. Find out more: www.societyofbiology.org/lscc

Organised by: In association with:

Sponsored by: University of Birmingham 14 November 2012 Queen's University Belfast 28 November 2012 University of Leeds 5 December 2012

WIN A £25 BOOK crossword TOKEN Pit your wits against this mind-boggling biological brainteaser

Across 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 this issue 1 hip suffers with load (7) The usual crossover format with all 5 Tear around to get grey hairs (7) the across answers being from the 9 10 9 B-back door (5) world of biology and clued without a 10 Gets into a tizzy (9) definition. Down answers provide the

11 Time to come first (4) 11 12 13 normal combination of a definition 12 Observe onset of disease (4) and a cryptic indication. 14 15 13 With temperature feel unwell (4) 16 Pollinator let loose (6) 16 17 18 how to enter

17 Isn’t organised in time to capture 19 To be in with a chance of winning a carbon (8) £25 book token please send us your 20 21 22 23 20 Wild one tamed (8) completed puzzles by 9th of November 22 Connect a reactor part (6) 24 2012. Please include your name,

25 Mist surrounds river (4) 25 26 27 28 29 address and membership number 27 This end when shaken might be with your entry – an email address 30 31 unmoved (4) would be handy too. Post your entries 28 Rioter finally caught by policeman (4) 32 33 to: Crossword, The Biologist, Society 32 Sort of bitter oil (9) of Biology, Charles Darwin House, 12 33 Cold girl (5) Roger Street, London, WC1N 2JU. 34 35 34 Outside of membrane is repeatedly taking in oxygen (7) Winners 35 One excited by logo (7) 15 Leading actor is a bit of an upstart (4) Well done to last issue’s winners, Dr 16 Aptitude for being corrupt (4) Mark Lyne MSB and Lionel Barrell Down 18 heads of the infants extremely CBiol MSB. Book tokens on the way. 1 One gets into swimming bath – that’s delicately drawn (4) customary (5) 19 I do waste time in cities going round 2 More power is being disseminated that’s stupid things (8) a commitment (7) 21 Sort of swallow one drink (7) 3 Strange to get second chances (4) 23 Road not made up and it’s extremely 4 Include green content – University windy (7) might offer it for biology course (6) 24 Queen goes into pubs surprisingly – 5 having lost power, head of country is just that’s great (6) someone who lives in the place (8) 26 Not bad, starting to sell commodities (5) 6 One bit that’s separate (5) 29 Turning up coy? Aggressively ambitious ➜ 7 No worrying one with diet issue (7) more like (5) 8 Care has to finish after a brief time (4) 30 Stop and shoot (4) Last issue’s 14 Scheme providing parking to take large 31 Tune chosen employs particular sound solution number (4) effect (4) Vol 59 No 3

Vol 59 No 4 / The BIOLOGIST / 55 FINAL WORD DR MARK DOWNS FSB, ChIeF eXeCUTIVe, SOCIeTY OF BIOLOGY

RULeS oF enGAGement ust after the Society was With the eyes of the world on asked the public and members to log formed, we commissioned a London after the 2012 Olympics, it sightings of flying ants – specifically poll by MORI to discover the will come as no surprise to discover the black ant Lasius niger, when the public’s perception of biology. that this year the Society has focused flying males and queens emerge for What images did it conjure up on the link between biology and their annual nuptial flight. forJ the man or woman in the street? sport. Over 100,000 people at events The media loved the concept and The front runner turned out to such as the Blue Peter Olympic we prepared to predict when ‘Flying be the dissection of a frog. Perhaps tour and the BBC’s Bang Goes the Ant Day’ would come this summer that says more about school biology Theory tour have had the chance to as sightings started to mount. In curricula of the past than anything hold plasticised animal hearts, build the end, with help from local radio, else, but it also revealed that the working models of human hands, the Today programme, Radio Five breadth of biology is not widely and learn the anatomy of joints and Live and the print media, the public understood and that most see it just sports injuries. The response has got involved in a big way. We were as a subject they studied at school. been incredibly positive, and ties logging a sighting every 10 seconds For me this means more public in nicely with our first ever Biology and 6,000 people took part. engagement in science is a top Week (see page 3). Lasius niger is extraordinary. How priority. We need to explain our Just like science festivals, which they coordinate the annual flight subject, evoke excitement, and show bring together many of our diverse across geography and nests remains why biology matters. Meeting the specialist member organisations, a mystery, but by tracking sightings We need public and talking about biology is Biology Week is all about creating a and linking them to local weather to explain incredibly rewarding but requires wide range of activities and events conditions we may learn more. our subject, a lot of work and commitment, which we hope will be an annual There are inevitably many ways to evoke often outside normal working occasion. The first step was to find a make biology relevant to everyone excitement, hours. Resources need to be shared project that could engage hundreds of and we need to keep trying new and volunteers encouraged. Our people in everyday biology; preferably activities. If you have ideas for and show experience over the last year has something easy to do. In the end, projects for Biology Week 2013, why biology shown just how well this can work, with great support from Professor or if you want to get involved in matters especially for the volunteers who, Adam Hart at the University of volunteering for public engagement once hooked, willingly offer their Gloucestershire and the help of projects through your branch or on support for future events. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, we national campaigns, let us know.

56 / The BIOLOGIST / Vol 59 No 4 Biopharma Process Systems Ltd is the UK and Ireland’s foremost provider of freeze dryers and comprehensive support services for a diversity of applications. Representing internationally renowned manufacturers we are confident to meet both your technical and commercial requirements from laboratory benchtop to fully automated production systems compliant with the latest industry requirements.

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