Fort Science will exhibit snakes, scorpions, spiders and fireflies

Several dozen different species of reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates will take up residence in the Fort Science of Palacký University over the weekend of March 26-27, where the event called Repulsive or Magical will take place for the sixth time. CATRIN scientists will also participate in the programme for the general public.

Visitors will have the opportunity to see entomological collections focused mainly on the species diversity of beetles. The collections contain a large number of families, including the oldest, which have been on Earth for more than 300 million years. Those who arrive will be able to see some of the largest beetles or beetles in amber that is 99 million years old.  The highlight will be the breeding colonies of greater fireflies on which scientists are conducting research.

“We are preparing demonstrations of insect collection methods. From the simpler ones, such as the exhauster or the scavenger, to Malaise traps, for example. Visitors will also be able to try sifting the soil and catching insects,” said Michal Motyka from CATRIN’s Biodiversity and Molecular Evolution group.

People can also look forward to seeing Europe’s largest lizard – the pearl lizard, the longest snake in the Czech Republic – the tree snake, and a variety of invertebrates – tropical cockroaches, beetles, predatory flatworms – vipers, scorpions, grasshoppers, terrestrial millipedes and many others.

“We will try to show the uniqueness of these interesting animals, despite the reservations that people often have,” says zoologist Pavel Javůrek, who works at the Olomouc Zoological Garden.

The Repulsive or Magical event is traditionally held in the Living Water exhibition and is covered in the regular admission fee. In addition, there will be a programme called Chemist’s Cipher in the chemistry laboratory, where people can try to turn water into wine, write a secret message or make hot ice. Those who like to create and make things can take part in a snake creativity workshop.

Lectures within the Repulsive or Magical