The Transformation of Lake Fly Midges
In The Transformation of Lake Fly Midges, narrator Sir David Attenborough follows the magical transformation of lake fly midges from undeveloped larvae deep in dark waters to adults that hatch by the millions at the surface to form strange clouds of flying insects! This video is excerpted from BBC's Planet Earth, a breathtaking documentary series that highlights the natural wonders of our planet.
Sir David Attenborough takes you inside the most remote, extreme, and jaw-dropping corners of the planet — filmed over four years across 64 countries. Learn more.
Lesson Express
Q: What “magical transformation” takes place in the rainy season?
A: The body of the insect changes from worm-like to insect/fly; it goes from living underwater to flying.
Q: What do the flies accomplish during their short lives?
A: They break out from the larva stage, mate, lay eggs, and die.
Q: What life functions do you observe in the short life of the flies?
A: Student responses will vary. Students may mention locomotion, reproduction, or growth.