Insect Module

Insects

The Biotron Insect Module supports the propagation, maintenance, and experimental study of a diverse range of insect species, including Drosophila, aphids, mites, mosquitoes, bees, moths, butterflies, and caterpillars. The module enables research into how ecological and environmental conditions influence interactions among plants, herbivores, and their natural predators.

Research conducted within the Insect Module also contributes to the development of insect pest and disease-vector control technologies, including approaches based on chemical ecology and biotechnology.

The module comprises two colony-rearing rooms and a separate experimental room, all equipped with specialized environmental control systems to support the growth and propagation of insects from various environments. A range of environmentally controlled growth chambers allows researchers to manipulate environmental conditions including temperature, humidity, light, and photoperiod, to meet specific experimental requirements.

Supporting the colony-rearing and experimental facilities is a central laboratory for sample preparation, a dedicated feed-preparation room, laboratory bench space, an autoclave for waste processing, a fume hood, and a cold room for perishable sample and material storage. Together, these facilities provide a comprehensive environment for insect-based research, from colony maintenance and experimental manipulation through to sample preparation and processing.