Video Collections

This lecture features Terrance Gosliner, Senior Curator and Dean of Science and Research Collections for the Academy's Department of Invertebrate Zoology.

Ants may be tiny, but they play a huge role in their ecosystems. In fact, biologists estimate that the collective weight of all the ants on Earth is equal to the weight of all humans.

In this talk, Dr. Brian Fisher describes the unique behaviors and incredible adaptations of our planet's most charismatic small animals. See how ants farm, hunt and tend "herds of livestock." Learn how primitive Dracula ants feed on their sisters' blood.

Watch the fastest recorded movement of any animal -- a feisty ant with lightning-quick jaws that Dr. Fisher filmed with one of the world's most advanced high-speed cameras. You'll also learn about Dr. Fisher's conservation efforts in Madagascar and gain new respect for our smallest neighbors.

Academy botanist Peter Fritsch talks about his field work and managing the Academy's 18 million plant specimens.

Biologist Liz Carlen discusses her work with small mammals.

Paco Hita Garcia talks about researching ants-- one of the most special insects of all.