September 7, 2007

Stroll an insect zoo, check out the Hard Roach Cafe or find out "Who Done It" using forensic entomology — whatever the interest in bugs, students can learn more about insect science during a University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Entomology open house Sept. 16.The UNL Insect Science Open House — Experience the Power of Bugs will allow middle and high school students to see a sampling of different insect science areas. The open house will be from 1-4 p.m. in the Plant Industry Building on UNL's East Campus.

"The open house will feature a variety of fun and informative sessions that will allow students to not only learn more about insect science, but possibly expose them to a future career," said Tiffany Heng-Moss, an associate professor of entomology in UNL's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Students will get to diagnose insect-borne diseases with Dr. Bug, check out native Nebraska insects, use forensic entomology techniques to determine "Who Done It?", and see how genetic traits are tracked down using insect DNA. In addition, current research posters by faculty and students will be on display throughout the building.

"For fun, students can visit an insect zoo and hold some very large insects," Heng-Moss said. "Or, they can visit a honeybee observation hive, have an insect snack or root for their favorite roach during the cockroach races."

Admission is free to the open house, and all participants can register for door prizes, including a Canon PowerShot A550 digital camera.

For more information, visit the UNL entomology Web site at http://entomology.unl.edu, call (402) 472-3416 or e-mail insectscience@unl.edu.