Grasshoppers and Crickets and Katydids, Oh My! Studying Acoustic Insects at the Academy of Natural Sciences Entomology Collection

Natural history collections allow us to document and understand the diverse flora and fauna of a changing world, perhaps none so much as insect collections. The Entomology Collection at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University houses over 4 million insect specimens, including the world’s largest collection of sound-producing insects: grasshoppers, crickets, and katydids. But how are the ephemeral calls made by these insects archived and researched, and what goes into making them a resource for scientists across the globe?

Experience the acoustic recording collection of curator Emeritus Dan Otte, which spans over 30 years and documents species across the globe, both known and unknown to science. These invaluable time-capsules depict soundscapes that may never exist in the wild again. Learn about how the current generation of Academy researchers and Drexel students are combing through these recordings for the secrets they hold and are working to make them publicly accessible.

Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are not required for this event.

About the Speaker

Aidan Houlihan (he/him) is an entomology curatorial assistant at the Academy of Natural Sciences. Graduating from Yale University in 2022 with a BS in ecology and evolutionary biology, he worked for the Peabody Museum’s Entomology Collection specializing in insect databasing, imaging and the development of automated high-throughput specimen processing and photogrammetry. His past research includes work on migratory dragonflies in the northeast United States and species assemblages of dragonfly and damselfly larvae in Connecticut lakes. His current work includes the digitization of the Otte Sound Archives, the expansion of the Academy’s insect collection database, and the curation of insect survey specimens from Valley Forge National Historical Park. He is also a proud member of the planning team for the Academy’s annual Bug Fest.

About the Series

Science on Tap is a monthly speaker series that features brief, informal presentations by Philadelphia-based scientists and other experts followed by lively conversation and a Q&A. The goal is to promote enthusiasm for science in a fun, spirited, and accessible way, while also meeting new people. Come join the conversation!

Featured photo courtesy of Aidan Houlihan.