Come and hear about “The intricate relationship between plants and moths”

Professor Donald Sands will be speaking about the special relationships between Heliozelid moths and Boronia and Zieria plants (Rutaceae). His observations and research suggests that each species of Boronia may require a different species of moth to pollinate it. He tells a fascinating story of romance and dependency between moths and their beloved Boronia’s. 

Speaker Bio: Professor Donald Sands is one of Australia’s pre-eminent expert on lepidoptera (Butterflies), having discovered and described many species during his long career with CSIRO and more recently, the University of Queensland. As an insect taxonomist and ecologist, he specialises in interactions between insects, plants and parasites and he has published over 300 scientific papers. This expertise has been used to ensure safety for biological control programs in Australia. In 2001, Don received an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for service to the horticultural industry in Australia and the Pacific region. His recent work has been focussed on insect conservation, particularly beneficial insects in farming systems, as well as ‘flagship species’ – those charismatic species that can be used as icons for the community, engaging people in rehabilitation of threatened species. Of particular note is his role in the recovery of the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly and involvement in the conservation of threatened butterflies and moths of northeast NSW and southeast QLD. Recently, his work has brought him to the Tenterfield region where he has studied the interactions between heliozelid moths and boronias.

This presentation will commence at 7:30pm, at the conclusion of the Tenterfield Naturalists meeting, at the Granite Borders Landcare Office 45 Martin Street Tenterfield

Tea/coffee and light catering available

Proudly supported by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)