Bug Squad

Most people have never served 38 consecutive years on an executive board that looks out for the health and welfare of two million people. But then again medical entomologist Robert Washino isn't most people.

So you're thinking you're putting on a little weight during the holidays. Not to worry. Put it all in perspective by thinking about the larvae of the honey bee.

What do flies have in common with us? For one thing, an innate immune system mechanism to detect and fight off invaders that threaten our health. Four scientists, including two Nobel Laureates, will discuss host defense at a UC Davis symposium on Wednesday, Jan. 25 in the UC Davis Conference Center.

The parasitic fly (family Tachinidae) never had a chance. It went from floral visitor to spider prey to spider dinner when it made a single solitary mistake: it inadvertently fell into a sticky web.

You've probably already "put a bug" in Santa's ear, telling him what you want. But have you ever thought of putting a bug on your holiday card? If you're an entomologist, absolutely. If you like insects, probably. If you're not a bug lover, no.