Koleksi Planet Pea-ple Siri 26: The Twilight Treasure at IAB: Moon Phases, Biodiversity, and The Magic Nature

Chiam Sun May, PhD Alex Fernandez Anak Ningkan Hani Juita Natasya binti Juni Nur Amira Athika binti Hasmansah Gerald Aldokent Silvester Lu Hui Sze The Twilight Treasure at IAB: Moon Phases, Biodiversity, and The Magic Nature KOLEKSI PLANET PEA-PLE SIRI 26

The Twilight Treasure at IAB: Moon Phases, Biodiversity, and The Magic Nature KOLEKSI PLANET PEA-PLE SIRI 26

INSTITUT PENDIDIKAN GURU KAMPUS KENT, PETI SURAT 2, 89207 TUARAN, SABAH. Hak Cipta © Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Kent 2023 Cetakan Pertama 2023 Hak cipta terpelihara. Tidak dibenarkan mengeluarkan atau ulang mana-mana bahagian kandungan, illustrasi dan jadual dalam kandungan buku ini dalam apa juga bentuk dan dengan apa juga sama ada secara elektronik, fotokopi mekanik, rakaman atau cara lain sebelum mendapat izin bertulis daripada Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Kent. Koleksi Planet Pea-ple Siri 26: The Twilight Treasure at IAB: Moon Phases, Biodiversity, and The Magic Nature CHIAM SUN MAY, PHD ALEX FERNANDEZ ANAK NINGKAN HANI JUITA NATASYA BINTI JUNI NUR AMIRA ATHIKA BINTI HASMANSAH LU HUI SZE GERALD ALDOKENT SILVESTER Editors & designers: Alex Fernandes Anak Ningkan, Hani Junita Natasya Binti Juni, Nur Amira Athika binti Hasmansah, Gerald Aldokent Silvester, Lu Hui Sze eISBN: 978-967-0008-67-7 Book cover designer: Nur Amira Athika binti Hasmansah

As I pen down these words in the preface of this book, my heart overflows with profound gratitude towards the inspiring individuals who have played an indispensable role in bringing this book to fruition. In the midst of this journey, there is my guiding angel, our beloved Timbalan Ketua Pengarah Pendidikan Dr. Ahmad Rafee bin Che Kassim. Your unwavering presence, keen understanding, and empathetic support have been my solace during my moments of exhaustion and doubt. Your encouragement has lifted me to greater heights, and your belief in my capabilities has fueled my determination to overcome any obstacles in my path, keeping me in high spirits and highly motivated. My ant man friend, Dr. Arthur Chung from the Sabah Forestry Department whom I regard as my walking taxonomy book. Your few keywords over WhatsApp always a lamp that lights my path to perform deep learning on the flora and fauna at IAB. To my special friends from Institut Aminuddin Baki, Madam Husna binti Yahya, Madam Nadzida bt Mohd Nadzim, Mr. Kanagarajan A/L Pandiyan, and Dr. Ahmad bin Hussin, your dedication has been the guiding light that paved the way for my growth and learning. Your passion for education has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind, shaping me into a better individual. To my esteemed Gang GKC 2023, you have been more than just coursemates; you have become an inseparable part of my journey, enriching my experience at every step. Your solid support and camaraderie have been the pillars that sustained my persistence. A special tribute goes to my beloved students my anak-anak emas, who have donned multiple hats, serving as the co-authors, editors, book cover designers, and graphic artists of this book. Your creative flair, attention to detail, and tireless efforts have transformed our vision into a tangible reality. Your commitment and enthusiasm have been a true inspiration, showcasing the potential and talent that lies within each of you. With heartfelt gratitude, I dedicate this work to our beloved Timbalan Ketua Pengarah Pendidikan, Dr. Ahmad Rafee bin Che Kassim, my ant man friend Dr. Arthur Chung, the esteemed lecturers of IAB, my Gang GKC 2023, and my dedicated anak-anak emas from IPGK Kent. May this book be a tribute to our shared passion for education and a symbol of the indomitable spirit that unites us. Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart. PREFACE MY HEARTFELT EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE i

In the captivating journey of knowledge and discovery, we, a group of aspiring students, found ourselves on an honorable odyssey alongside our mentor extraordinaire. This remarkable experience has been nothing short of awe-inspiring, transformative, and humbling. As students turned co-authors and editors, we embarked on a quest filled with the sense of being entrusted with something truly special. The opportunity to curate, design, and shape our mentor's work felt like an acknowledgment of our potential and abilities. We dived deep into academic references, meticulously laid out each page, and poured our hearts into every detail. It was a testament to our commitment and thirst for knowledge. In this process, we came to appreciate the profound significance of reading and literacy. The power of words, ideas, and narratives became even more apparent. We realized that through literature, we could unlock new realms of understanding and exploration. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our mentor Dr. Chiam Sun May, whose unwavering support and belief in our capabilities have been the driving force behind this odyssey. Through this journey, we evolved into critical, innovative, and creative thinkers, applying art in the realm of science. We learned the art of teamwork, organization, and the invaluable skill of delegation. This odyssey has not only enriched our academic lives but also our character. We stand here today, not just as students, but as co-authors, editors, creators, and thinkers, ready to embark on new journeys with the lessons and experiences gained during this remarkable odyssey. With sincere appreciation and enthusiasm, FROM STUDENTS TO CO-AUTHORS & AND EDITORS: AN HONORABLE ODYSSEY WITH OUR MENTOR EXTRAORDINAIRE The editors and designers ii

KOLEKSI PLANET PEA-PLE SIRI 26 The Twilight Treasure at IAB: Moon Phases, Biodiversity, and The Magic Nature iii

CONTENT PAGES Preface: My Heartfelt Expression of Gratitude i From Students to Co-author and Editors: An Honourable Odyssey with Our Mentor Extraordinaire ii - iii Table of Content iv - v From Waxing Gibbous to Waxing Gibbous: A Moonlit Journey at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Alex Fernandez Anak Ningkan 1-5 Meeting Bakas Abroad: My Surprise Encounter at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Alex Fernandez Anak Ningkan 6-7 The Nature's Tiny Marvels of Cooperation and Efficiency of IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Alex Fernandez Anak Ningkan 8-9 My Nangka-thon Tale of Observation at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Hani Juita Natasya Binti Juni 10-12 IAB the Nutopia: The Squirrels Reign Supreme by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Hani Juita Natasya Binti Juni 13-16 National Geographic at IAB:Capturing the Playful Primate Extravaganza in Low-Res Liveliness by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Hani Juita Natasya Binti Juni 17-18 Breadfruit Bounty Unearthed at IAB: A Gastronomic Adventure by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Hani Juita Natasya Binti Juni 19-21 Unexpected Reptilian Royalty: Meeting the One and Only Monitor Lizard at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Nur Amira Athika binti Hasmansah 22-23 The Kuaci Moth :The Tiny Marvels at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Nur Amira Athika binti Hasmansah 24-26 Elegance Reaching for the Skies: A Glimpse of the Towering Slim Guardians at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Nur Amira Athika binti Hasmansah 27-29 TABLE OF CONTENTS iv

CONTENT PAGES Durian Data Delight: My Tree-Top Counting Experience at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Nur Amira Athika binti Hasmansah 30-32 The Avian Nyonyas of IAB: Masters of Aerial Nesting Artistry by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Gerald Aldokent Silvester 33-35 Aerial Jewels: Dragonflies' Glinting Grace at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Gerald Aldokent Silvester 36-38 Blooming Chronicles: The Hibiscus Diversity at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Gerald Aldokent Silvester 39-42 Pandanus Panorama: Scented Splendor of IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Lu Hui Sze 43-47 The Sunrise and Sunset Symphony at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Lu Hui Sze 48-51 My Introspection of My One Month at IAB by Dr. Chiam Sun May and Lu Hui Sze 52 - 53 TABLE OF CONTENTS v

The moon goes through different phases as it orbits around the Earth, and these phases are a result of how sunlight illuminates the moon's surface from our perspective on Earth. The moon's phases are cyclic and repeat approximately every 29.5 days, which is known as a lunar month. The primary moon phases include New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, Waxing Gibbous, Full Moon, Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent. These moon phases have fascinated humans for centuries, influencing various cultural practices, beliefs, and activities tied to the lunar calendar. From Waxing Gibbous to Waxing Gibbous: A Moonlit Journey at IAB 1

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The chill vibes with the dancing skeletons through the Lens the Moonligh D t ancing in A Kaleidoscope Kaleidoscope of Moon Moments Moments Captured Captured 3

Fly Me to the Moon Fly me to the moon Let me play among the stars And let me see what spring is like On a-Jupiter and Mars In other words, hold my hand In other words, baby, kiss me Fill my heart with song And let me sing forevermore You are all I long for All I worship and adore In other words, please be true In other words, I love you Fill my heart with song Let me sing forevermore You are all I long for All I worship and adore In other words, please be true In other words, in other words I love you “Fly Me to the Moon”, originally titled “In Other Words”, is a song written in 1954 by Bart Howard. Kaye Ballard made the first recording of the song the year it was written. Frank Sinatra's 1964 version was closely associated with the Apollo missions to the Moon. Latest version is by Olivia Ong, a Singaporean singer and actress. 4

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The wild boar (Sus scrofa), is affectionately known as "bakas" in Sabah. It holds a very special place in the hearts of the local Sabahan communities. This charismatic creature kindles excitement regardless of race or religion in Sabah when the topic of discussion veers toward its fascinating presence. Meeting Bakas Abroad: My Surprise Encounter at IAB Go to next page to see me ! Rawr Although not as freely and abundantly roaming as in IAB, the wild boar's significance remains deeply ingrained in Sabah's culture and cuisine. The iconic "sinalau bakas" BBQ dish symbolizes unity, drawing people together in joyous camaraderie, even though it is not halal among our Muslim mates. Despite challenges to its habitat and population in Sabah, the bakas continues to be cherished, making it a delightful subject of conversation, sprinkled with humor and shared enthusiasm among the Sabahan. 6

Untamed Joy Thriving in the Wild Where’s my food? 7 mansau ansau sikit jam

The Nature's Tiny Marvels of Cooperation and Efficiency of IAB 8

Tiny Titans of Toil: The Industrious World of Busy Ants Weaver ants play vital ecological roles, maintaining balance by controlling pests and inadvertently aiding pollination. Aweinspiring and essential, these tiny artisans stand as entomological wonders, deserving of our admiration and respect. In the realm of defense, weaver ants amaze with an ingenious tactic—spraying venom, which is rich in formic acid, from their abdomens. This remarkable skill sets them apart from typical stinging insects. Don't try to be funny with them. 9

I found joy and appreciation in the presence of the Jackfruit tree, scientifically known as Artocarpus heterophyllus from the Moraceae family. Towering up to 20 meters tall, the Jackfruit tree donned a crown of glossy, dark green leaves, a symbol of strength and fortitude. The crown jewel of this tree, the Jackfruit itself, emerged as a formidable contender, being the largest fruit known to grace a tree's boughs. With its hefty weight ranging from 3 to 30 kilograms, it sported a thick, green, bumpy rind adorned with spiky projections, a veritable 'fruit of fortitude.' Within its generous embrace, hundreds to thousands of individual flowers resided, each boasting the potential to transform into either seeds or delectable arils - yellow, fibrous, and tantalizing. wwhhoo gets gets tthhe pinnacles e pinnacles of the fruits of the fruits Nangka-Thon Tale of Observation at IAB my 10

In my literature review, I delved into the nutritional realm. The Jackfruit is a treasure trove of sustenance. Bursting with vitamin C, supplying around 20% of the recommended daily intake per 100 grams. It is also generously provided vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. Abundant in carbohydrates and offering a moderate amount of protein, this splendid fruit proved to be the embodiment of vitality and strength. In my quest for knowledge, I sought out the Jackfruit's presence within the hallowed grounds of IAB, I discovered that there are 37 Jack trees proudly standing tall. With a little personal touch, my inquiry rewarded me with the delightful revelation of 27 fruits adorning these trees on the auspicious date of 2 July 2023. 11

Olivia Wilson Fruitful Depths Diving Deep into the world of nangka the world of nangka 12

THE IABUTOPIA :REIGN SUPREME The SquirrelsSquirrels, members of the Sciuridae family, are small to medium-sized rodents found across various habitats worldwide. Their distinctive features include a slender build, bushy tails, and impressive agility, allowing them to navigate trees and challenging terrain with ease. As omnivores, squirrels have a diverse diet comprising nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetation, occasionally supplemented by insects and small animals. Diurnal in nature, they actively communicate with one another through vocalizations, body language, and tail movements. Their role in ecosystems is crucial, as they aid in seed dispersal by burying nuts and seeds, inadvertently contributing to reforestation efforts. While some may consider them pests in urban areas due to their occasional mischief, squirrels remain a cherished and lively presence that enhances the charm of the surroundings at IAB. 13

Let's unveil the little secret about the IAB campus. It is a squirrel's utopia, a furry paradise of joy and laughter! These lively critters are simply bursting with happiness as they frolic freely, scampering up trees like acrobats on steroids. I found them zipping through the lush green campus , truly the kings and queens of fun. To make it even more delightful, the cheeky monkeys of the campus have taken on the role of self-appointed squirrel saviors. They watch over their bushy-tailed buddies like overprotective grandparents, forming a heartwarming wildlife buddy system. The monkeys ensure the squirrels' safety while the squirrels, in return, provide endless amusement to their simian companions. It is a sight that warms my heart! 14

a real love affair with jackfruit. While they munch on the succulent bits, they don't forget their squirrel pals. They generously leave behind little jackfruit treats for the squirrels, creating a delightful interspecies foodsharing program, their kind of CSR perhaps. As for the humans and cat on the campus, they have mastered the art of being squirrel-blind! I spot people strolling casually, their eyes firmly fixed on other things, totally oblivious to the entertaining squirrel shenanigans above and around them. And as for the cat, it might just consider its bushy-tail friends to be fuzzy UFOs zipping across the sky. Even quirkier, the monkeys and squirrels have this unique partnership with the leftover jackfruit. The monkeys seem to have In the enchanting evenings at the IAB campus, this nutopia truly becomes a comedy of delightful proportions, where the harmonious blend of squirrels, monkeys, humans, and cat creates a spectacle that perfectly embodies the vibrant spirit of biological diversity. 15

The Wild Companions The Tuxedo cat Sepandai-pandai tupai melompat, sekali jatuh ke tanah juga. (Peribahasa Melayu). Bermaksud : Sepandai-pandai seseorang melakukan sesuatu pekerjaan, sekali pasti akan tersilap juga. As clever as a squirrel jumps, once it falls to the ground too. (Malay proverb). No matter how smart someone is at doing a job, they will definitely make mistakes. 16

In this video clip, I find myself immersed in the captivating world of our cheeky cousins – the monkeys! Look, a group of these delightful primates has gathered, probably their cocurriculum time, ready to embark on a playful escapade that is nothing short of a sidesplitting spectacle! National Geographic at IAB Get ready to chuckle as they engage in antics that could rival the finest comedians of the animal kingdom. They chase each other with boundless enthusiasm, showing off their agility and mischievous wit. Their social dynamics are equally fascinating, just like a seasoned improv troupe, they communicate with a unique blend of vocalizations and gestures. What a treat and a special experience to witness their lively conversations, even from afar, in high-definition glory. 17

PLANET OF THE APES Despite many attempts, I couldn't zoom in for close-ups as they gave disapproving glances at the camera, seemingly unimpressed by my amok-razzi skills. Still, I am happy and humbly grateful for the opportunity to catch a pixelated glimpse into their world of playfulness. This video reminds me to cherish the simple joys of the animal kingdom, a lighthearted testament to the spirited charm of our Gobuk friends. (Note: "Gobuk" is a word used in Sabah which means "monkey") CHAOS AND LAUGHTER IN THE Primate Playground Rise of the : 18

Breadfruit Breadfruit Bounty Bounty : Unearthed at IAB GASTRONOMICAdventureBreadfruit Artocarpus altilis, is a delightful member of the mulberry and jackfruit family Moraceae, graces the grounds of IAB with its enchanting presence. During my exploration, I stumbled upon two breadfruit trees near the main entrance, bearing a promise of more hidden gems behind the campus. As I marveled at the tree, my literature review revealed a fascinating Hawaiian myth, a tale of sacrifice by the noble war god Kū, who bestowed this nourishing tree upon the world. The mythical drama unfolded as Kū, yearning for a simple life among mortals, descended into the earth, leaving only the top of his head visible. It is a story blending the divine and practical with a pinch of mystery, the fruit looks like a human skull to me now. 19

In the tropical haven where breadfruit thrives, it reigns as a culinary gem, cherished by many as a staple food. Throughout the year, its varieties bear fruits, catering generously to hungry souls seeking ripe and unripe delights. My gastronomic journey unveiled the culinary transformations of unripe breadfruit, an array of roasting, baking, frying, and boiling, each method a spectacle worthy of a gourmet's palette. As I acquaint myself with these creative makan ways, I confess my limited food expertise, but I found joy in the crispy indulgence of fry breadfruit dipped in flour batter which is a delightful fusion of flavors akin to bread, sparking a gustatory adventure worth savoring. 20

I would like to savor the delights breadfruit brings to the dining tables, allowing our palates to revel in its wonders and our hearts to be warmed by the captivating tale of the godly gift, woven with myths and culinary knowledge, a reminder of the richness that nature and culture together bestow. bread fruit, it is a s ice of paradise NOR NOR 21

He can't make it onto my "Most Handsome Creatures" list. Anyway, I see his agility in climbing tree with my own eyes, too bad I was not swift enough to record his spiderman stun. This guy is just superb when it comes to tree-climbing skills. Seriously, he navigates the branch like he is auditioning for the next action blockbuster. I might not be swooning over his looks, but I definitely giving him a standing ovation for his impressive moves. Monitor lizards belong to the genus Varanus and are characterized by their lengthy necks, robust tails and claws, and fully developed limbs. Most monitor species are found on land, and their diet primarily consists of eggs, smaller reptiles, fish, birds, insects, and small mammals. But, he would be more associated with "pusas" if I related him with the culture of Sabah. UNEXPECTED REPTILIAN ROYALTY: Meeting the Monitor Lizard at IAB I am a monitor lizard 22

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Arctiinae moths are classified under the family Erebidae. It constitute a diverse assemblage of Lepidoptera distinguished by distinctive morphological and ecological attributes. Morphologically, these moths showcase intricate coloration patterns and specialized structures that often serve as defensive mechanisms against predators. The Kuaci Moth : The Tiny Marvels at IAB These adaptations include tufts of setae, or hair-like structures, which can be barbed, bristled, or even adorned with venomous spines. For a few seconds, this tiny marvel left me utterly bewildered, how does a kuaci landed at my door side? 24

Arctiinae moths predominantly inhabit various terrestrial habitats, encompassing temperate and tropical regions across the globe. Their ecological role is multifaceted, engaging in essential roles within ecosystems. Many species of Arctiinae moths are involved in pollination dynamics, contributing to the reproductive success of numerous plant species. Concurrently, they are integral components of food chains, serving as prey for various avian and insectivorous species. I am delighted to discover that this tiny marvel is very common in Peninsular Malaysia but not found in Borneo. 25

The micro marvel, I celebrate the overlooked gem of tiny 26

Elegance Reaching for the : A Glimpse of the Towering Slim Guardians at IAB Sky Schizolobium parahyba (Brazilian firetree) is found at IAB. This tree has various local names, I find it interesting (guapuruvu, guapiruvu, bacurubu). Its distinctive feature is its tendency to branch out primarily near the top, which captured my attention. I managed to capture some photos of the tree, including its beautiful flowers. Let's perform a deep learning on the flowers and seeds. This tree knows how to throw a flower party like no other. Bursting forth with flowers the size of mini UFOs, approximately 3.5 cm in diameter, it is no surprise that these blooms attract a pollinator posse. Nectar is the name of the game, and this tree is the host with the most, enticing critters with its sweet offerings. 27

Gazing up at the arboreal majesty And the pièce de résistance? (fruit bah itu). It is elongated, tadpole-like pods that put a botanical spin on the runway walk, a confident 10 cm strut. Inside each pod lies a single, smooth, brown seed, complete with an oval silhouette that's undoubtedly the envy of its seed peers. 28

A Reverent Tribute to the Tall and Handsome Tree A Towering Splendor: 29

It is truly an extraordinary experience to explore the lush canopy of IAB. Armed with my trusty gadget, I embarked on a unique durian counting escapade that seamlessly merged technology with the wonders of nature. With every click of the shutter, my camera lens transformed into a portal, allowing me to zoom in with precision on the durian trees here. The video mode became my storyteller, capturing the subtle rustling of leaves and the vibrant hues of the durians, suspended like nature's treasures in the emerald tapestry of the canopy. Data Delight: My Tree-Top Counting Experience at IAB How to Open a Durian - Fast, Easy & Simple - Detailed Guide in Under a Minute! #DurianItOut! Durian 30

I was joined by two equally passionate companions, kindred spirits who shared my enthusiasm for uncovering the durian secrets. We were equally excited, whispered in awe, and marveled at the spectacle before us. Each durian we counted was a shared triumph, a moment frozen in time through the lens of camaraderie. As the sun cast dappled shadows through the leaves, we continued our ascent, our hearts filled with anticipation and wonder. The thrill of discovery coursed through us, connecting us not only to the durians but also to the vibrant ecosystem at IAB that enveloped us. Durian Runtuh: Mendapat keuntungan dengan tidak bersusah-payah #begrateful Comic Stripe from LAT: More Durian Life, A Durian Life Collection by C. W. Kee Do you think is an ambassador of Malaysia? 31

Do You know? D U R I O C E Y L A N I C U S , T H E C E Y L O N D U R I A N , I S A S P E C I E S O F F L O W E R I N G P L A N T I N T H E F A M I L Y M A L V A C E A E . I T I S F O U N D O N L Y I N S R I L A N K A . T H E C E Y L O N D U R I A N , A L A R G E P R I C K L Y F R U I T , I S I N E D I B L E A N D D O E S N O T S T I N K ( W I K I P E D I A , 2 0 2 3 ) . F E E L T H E T H R I L L I N G E X P E R I E N C E C O U N T I N G Q U E S T A M I D S T T H E L E A V E S 32

Discovering a bird's nest filled my heart with sheer happiness and a profound sense of wonder. As I gazed upon the intricately woven masterpiece, my admiration for the avian architects knew no bounds. The impeccable skill displayed in their knitting-like craftsmanship left me in awe. This engineering marvel ignited a spark within me, urging me to delve deeper into the captivating world of avian nest-making. Eagerly, I am curious to know how do these tiny creatures meticulously fashion their abodes, each thread a testament to their innate ingenuity. The Avian Nyonyas of IAB: Masters of Aerial Nesting Artistry 33

Searching for the feathered artisans which are gifted with the Nyonya-Style Knitting Finesse Ta daaa.... the female birds are ready to lay eggs! 34

Birds construct their nests through a combination of instinct and learned behaviors, often using a variety of materials found in their environment. The specific process can vary between species, but here is a general overview of how birds typically make their nests: Site selection: considering safety and accessibility to food Materials selection: based on availability and the intended design of the nest Building the Framework: involve interlocking twigs or leaves to form a sturdy foundation Shaping and Lining: to provide insulation and cushioning for eggs and chicks Consolidation: reinforcing the structure and ensuring stability Final Touches: making the nest less conspicuous to predators 35

The dragonfly, belonging to the family Odonata, emerges as an insect of remarkable significance, showcasing a complex blend of characteristics. It stands as a captivating testament to the marvels of evolution and holds a substantial role as an ecological indicator. The presence of dragonflies within an ecosystem serves as a compelling marker of environmental health, signaling the vitality of the surrounding habitat and aquatic systems they inhabit. Commendable work, IAB, for fostering such conditions. Aerial Jewels: Dragonflies' Glinting Grace at IAB From Nymph to Wings: The Dragonfly Life Cycle, Asia’s Weirdest, National Geographic Wild UK 36

In the realm of flight, the dragonfly consistently unveils an impressive spectacle of aerial prowess. Its distinct capacity to effortlessly hover, dart, and glide with unparalleled agility finds its roots in the intricate structure of its four wings. Through synchronized wing movement, the dragonfly achieves exceptional control and maneuverability, allowing it to gracefully navigate complex flight patterns. This mastery is facilitated by its unique ability to independently adjust the angle and amplitude of each wing, resulting in unmatched precision during its airborne endeavors. Indeed, these flight patterns stand as a splendid testament to the captivating process of adaptation and evolution in the natural world. 37

The enchanted dance of glittering presented by the dragonflies Kevin Kern - Dance Of The Dragonfly 38

Embracing the small yet rich canvas of IAB, the hibiscus species stood as vibrant brushstrokes, each hue a reflection of the plant's individuality. The resplendent red hibiscus is a symbol of passion and vitality, resonating with an intensity that mirrored the heart's fervor. The delicate pink variety exuded grace and tenderness, akin to a whispered promise in IAB's embrace. Meanwhile, the exuberant orange hibiscus echoed the sun's warmth, igniting a fiery connection to the earth's embrace. And the pristine white blossoms are a tribute to purity and seemed to embody the very essence of the campus’s serenity. Blooming Chronicles: The Hibiscus Diversity at IAB 39

As I observed this chromatic spectrum, I see the unity of life's diverse expressions. Each hibiscus, distinct in its hue, shape, and character, coexisted harmoniously, casting aside the constraints of color to embrace a shared existence. In their graceful dance, the hibiscus whispered a lesson of unity, a reminder that beneath our diverse exteriors. We share the same life force, intertwining as one magnificent tapestry of existence. The hibiscus also unveiled a profound metaphor for humanity's interconnected journey. As I studied these elegant blooms, I aware that there is a language of nature that transcends boundaries, inviting me to reflect upon my interconnectedness in the grand tapestry of life. 40

The floral mosaic, presented by the Hibiscus 41

Where and when, the multicolored Hibicus... Illuminate the Earth you are beautiful... in red 42