Dudu Delights: Exploring the world of insects and other invertebrates at the Nairobi National Museum

On May 4th, the Nairobi National Museum grounds were the venue for our first fascinating “Dudu Walk” led by the knowledgeable Laban Njoroge, head of the Invertebrates Section at the National Museums of Kenya. While the weather forced a shift from field exploration to indoor discovery, the day proved to be an informative and engaging adventure into the wonderful world of a dudu (Swahili for insect).

The highlight of the morning was a tour of the museum's insect collection – the second-largest collection in Africa! The group was captivated by the meticulously preserved specimens, a testament to the museum's dedication to collecting, identifying and preserving species.

Laban Njoroge, an expert in aquatic invertebrates, shed light on the crucial role dragonflies and damselflies play as indicators of healthy water systems. He also pointed out the concerning trend of some species facing local extinction due to water pollution, a fact supported by the museum's dragonfly phenographs – a method for identifying subpopulations.

The day wasn't just about serious science – there were fun facts aplenty! Did you know that the large Emperor Moths in the Saturniidae family sport circular marks on each of their hind wings that look like planet Saturn's rings, a clever defence mechanism against predators? Or that the vibrant carmine lipstick shade comes from the cochineal bug, whose distinct red colour can also be used as a food dye and microscopy stain?

Mr Njoroge even introduced us to a dangerous newcomer: the Anopheles stephensi mosquito, native to Asia. First spotted in Marsabit and now collected from Archer's Post in northern Kenya, this urban vector of malaria is a cause for concern. The group was treated to a rare glimpse of this mosquito through a microscope, learning about the features that distinguish it from our native species.

As the weather improved in the afternoon, participants got their hands dirty (literally!) with some citizen science. The task? Hand-picking the numerous African Giant Snails (Lissachatina fulica) from the museum gardens – a fun and slightly sticky experience! They can be dried and ground and used as a protein supplement in animal feed!? The snail is native[FN1]? to East Africa (https://infonet-biovision.org/plant_pests/snails-giant-east-african-snail ). It is considered a major agricultural pest, the most damaging land snail in the world.

Calling all insect enthusiasts! The next Dudu walk will be on July 27.