July Reflections in the Garden
Topic: Catching the Light: The Hidden World of Louisiana Fireflies
Few sights capture the magic of a Louisiana summer like the glow of fireflies drifting across a darkening field, but behind those flickering lights is a fascinating and increasingly fragile story. In this illuminating presentation, LSU AgCenter researchers Brooklyn Dardar and Christine Gambino will explore the surprising biology of fireflies (family Lampyridae), what their glowing signals really mean, and why these beloved insects are disappearing. Attendees will discover why fireflies matter so much to our ecosystems, what their absence is trying to tell us, and how researchers at the LSU AgCenter are working to rebuild native populations right here at Burden. It's a chance to look closer at one of nature's most enchanting displays and to learn how science is helping keep those summer lights glowing for generations to come.
Speakers: Brooklyn Dardar and Christine Gambino, LSU AgCenter
About the Speakers:
Brooklyn Dardar is a native of Central Louisiana and an undergraduate student at Louisiana State University studying ecology and restoration in the School of Renewable Natural Resources. She works as a research assistant rebuilding firefly populations with collaborators at the LSU AgCenter. Currently, she is conducting baseline population assessments at Burden Museum & Gardens, where the team is gaining an understanding of current population dynamics with a focus on restoring native habitat.
Christine Gambino's passion for conservation began growing up around rice fields and wetlands, where she saw how closely ecosystems and agriculture are connected. These experiences guided her career in research and extension with the LSU AgCenter. She works with rice producers to adopt sustainable, climate resilient practices while also leading a firefly conservation program that integrates field research, community engagement, and public outreach. Through coordinating field studies, analyzing ecological data, mentoring students, and translating science to diverse audiences, she has built a strong foundation in applied conservation and collaborative, science driven solutions.
Event Details:
July 6, 2026 from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Ione Burden Conference Center (4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809)
Reflections in the Garden is a monthly "lunch and learn" series presented by the Friends of LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens. The lectures are generally held on the first Monday of the month at noon at the Botanic Gardens.
Reflections in the Garden is live-streamed to members of the Friends of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens through Microsoft Teams. In-person attendance is open to both members and nonmembers with registration.
