Funky critters

Our love for alcohol needs no introduction. But a surprising diversity of animals - from insects to mammals - also regularly consume, or even prefer, alcohol-rich diets. In my talk, I will trace this story from the evolution of fleshy fruits and their fermentation by yeasts, to the evolutionary implications of feeding on this boozy diet in animals, especially butterflies, which I currently study. Studying such animals can offer unique insights into the adaptations involved in coping with alcohol, and may also hold a key to understanding the evolution of diseases such as alcoholism in humans.

Ever wondered how small creatures find their way without Google Maps? The trick is a biological compass! Many insects find guidance in the sun and moon, and some even use the stars.  In this talk we go from field nights under the South African sky to tiny brain cells firing in navigation systems that work on a small energy budgets.