THURSDAY, MAY 15 at 8:00PM

They are all around us, inhabiting the air and living in trees, grasses, lakes, and often sharing our homes with us. Insects play a fundamental role in human existence and are crucial to the sustainability of many of life’s support systems. Dr. Doug Phillips reveals Alabama’s particularly diverse “Insect Wonders” Thursday night on DISCOVERING ALABAMA.

Comprising the greatest diversity of species on earth and totaling the highest number of all animals known to man, insects are well known for causing devastation. Some species can damage our homes and crops while others cause illnesses and transmit deadly diseases, but they are also crucially important to our everyday lives.

Dr. Phillips unveils the remarkable diversity of Alabama’s insect world as he sheds light on their profound impact on human existence and ecological sustainability. From their role in waste decomposition to serving as crucial components in the food chain, “Insect Wonders” delves into the often-overlooked world of insects, highlighting their significance in shaping Alabama’s ecosystem. With over five million species documented and possibly millions more to be discovered, insects are ubiquitous yet enigmatic. Through his captivating storytelling, Dr. Phillips unravels the mysteries of insect behavior in Alabama.

Viewers will learn the distinguishing characteristics of insects and find out what gives them amazing adaptability, the importance of pollination, and how the habitat diversity of Alabama supports the insect population. Hear from experts around the state and discover the essential role of insects in Alabama’s vast ecosystem, how we benefit from this activity, and why we should preserve the lives of these critters.