06-May-2021 Theme: 'Glow'

(1) What word means the biochemical emission of light by living organisms?

Answer: Bioluminescence.

(2) In October 2020 scientists made the surprise discovery that platypuses glow green under ultraviolet light. Where was the discovery made?

Answer: United States (from specimens in the Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, Illinois and the University of Nebraska State Museum).

(3) The insect genus Arachnocampa, endemic to Australia and New Zealand, consists of nine species of fungus gnats. What are their larvae commonly known as?

Answer: Glow worms.

(4) The Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) are visible from which four countries? (one point each).

Answer: Australia, New Zealand, Chile and Argentina.

(5) Omphalotus nidiformis, a white, gilled mushroom species found in southern Australia, is famous for glowing in the night. What is its common name?

Answer: Ghost fungus.

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