Hi, I'm Ariel. I'm a nature and biology enthusiast. I recently graduated from University of Florida in Gainesville, where I studied plant molecular biology. I'm interested in plant breeding and genetics, plant-pathogen interactions, and sustainable agriculture. I also have a passion for entomology, and I recently got into birding. I'm originally from Texas, but I love exploring Florida's biodiversity with my boyfriend, Louis. When we're not studying, you can find us walking local trails, skateboarding, biking, sailing, or diving.

This is my last year in Gainesville, so there might be a major change of scenery in the near future!

What is this blog about?
This blog might be just another dime-a-dozen nature blog, but I'm hoping it can be more than that. I want to incorporate the science I've learned and delve into the biology and ecology of these species. Some posts may be more detached from nature, just focusing on a bit of science I want to highlight or something interesting I came across in my research.

I try to use as many of my own images as possible on this site. Most were taken with my phone, which has seen some years. External images are credited to their original creators.

What's with the title?
I love bugs! Lovebugs are commonly detested as a nuisance species, but I want to challenge that image. I wrote about them in my first post, here. I want to encourage awareness and love for the insects that make our ecosystems function. These organisms have beauty in their own right and through their interactions with other species. 

Links

This blog wouldn't be possible without the encouragement of support of Louis Johnson, otherwise known as Bahamalouie.

I was first inspired to pursue biology by Mark Mandica, founder of The Amphibian Foundation.

I owe so much to Lorena Endara, my mentor, coworker, and dear friend. You can find her amazing work here.

Be sure to check out my friends Natya Hans and Evan Cooper.