When we interviewed Dr. Dino Martins about his work studying parasites, we found out that he is also a talented artist who makes sketches of the critters and creepy-crawlies that he studies. He shared some of his work with us to bring to you.
Flower Mantis
These experts of camouflage—aside from being beautiful to look at—are highly effective predators.
Parasitic Wasp
An early encounter with parasitic wasps and a doomed caterpillar sparked Dr. Martins’ interest in parasites. A large group of species, parasitic wasps can also use beetles, flies, and spiders as hosts.
Leech
We do, in fact, still use leeches in Western medicine! Instead of bloodletting, they’re used to reduce swelling and increase circulation.
Tsetse Fly
Tsetse flies have an oddly mammalian way of feeding their young, with larvae nursing from a nipple-like structure that secretes milk.
Flea
Statistically, you’re more likely to run into a flea than most of the other insects Dr. Martins spoke to us about. Their range extends worldwide.
Blush Conchylodes Moth
The blush conchylodes moth (Conchylodes salamisalis) lives in warm, humid regions of the Americas. (Image credit: Dino Martins) This moth is not a parasite, but it’s beautiful— and might make your skin stop crawling.
More of Dr. Martins’ artwork is featured in his latest book, Hidden Creatures: Luscious Leeches, Bashful Botflies, and the Wondrous, History-Shaping World of Parasites.
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