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Insects have lived on earth for over 380 million years and have the greatest number of species in the animal kingdom. People will have a chance to learn more about these incredible, tiny creatures by visiting the newly renovated Insectarium at the Lions Nature Education Centre in Sai Kung.
A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (May 27) that the Insectarium in Tsiu Hang, with a site area of 150 square metres and some 40 insect specimens and live specimens of terrestrial and aquatic insects, such as dragonflies, butterflies, fireflies and water beetles, is a great place to explore the wonders of the insect kingdom.
Hong Kong has a rich insect fauna. There are about 240 species of butterflies, including such beautiful species as the common birdwing. There is a great diversity of dragonfly fauna with over 110 species recorded. Among them, the Hong Kong tusktail, the spangled shadow-emerald and the Hong Kong clubtail are endemic species in Hong Kong. Of the many moths, the atlas moth is outstanding for its large size, with a wingspan up to 30 centimetres wide.
The Insectarium is divided into 10 zones. The display panels, video clips and interactive games provide information on the body structure and metamorphosis of insects and their interesting habits and behaviours. Visitors can also learn some fun facts about insects, such as their strategies to guard against predators and to find partners.
Although insects are small, they have incredibly complicated structures. With the aid of a microscope, visitors can get a close look at their unique compound eyes, wings, mouthparts and abdomens.
The renovation, which started last November and completed in mid-May this year, aims to strengthen public education on insects in Hong Kong.
Admission to the Lions Nature Education Centre is free. Opening hours of the Insectarium are from 9.30am to 4.30pm every day except Tuesdays and the first two days of the Lunar New Year. For enquiries, please call 2792 2234.
Ends/Friday, May 27, 2011
Issued at HKT 15:31
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