APSU’s Science on Tap to explore how insects shape an Icelandic ecosystem on Nov. 3

By: Megan Simpson October 26, 2026

Dr. Jamie Botsch, assistant professor of biology at Austin Peay State University, conducts research amidst a midge swarm over Lake Mývatn in northern Iceland. Botsch will discuss the insects’ role in the ecosystem during the next Science on Tap, Nov. 3. | Contributed photo

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — Austin Peay State University’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics will host Science on Tap at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at Strawberry Alley Ale Works.

Dr. Jamie Botsch, assistant professor in the Department of Biology, will present “The landscape flies built: The story of a lake, billions of insects, and an ecosystem without boundaries.” The talk will take attendees to Lake Mývatn (which translates to midge lake) in northern Iceland, where tiny midges have a surprising effect on both the water and the land.

Botsch will explain how these flies affect the aquatic ecosystem and how they link the lake to the surrounding land. He will draw on his research into the complex population dynamics of midges at Lake Mývatn to demonstrate the vital interconnectedness between insects and their environment. 

“A lake in northern Iceland is home to millions of flies that shape everything from algae to fish to spiders and land plants,” Botsch said. “Come learn about this fascinating ecosystem and how similar processes shape local landscapes.”

Botsch earned his Ph.D. in integrative biology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His research includes studies of aquatic insects in Iceland and of pollinators and agricultural insects across North America. By combining ecology with physiology, he seeks to understand how insects respond to changing environmental conditions and how those responses shape ecosystems.

About Science on Tap

Science on Tap features APSU College of STEM faculty presenting topics to the community. The free event for all ages is held on the first Tuesday of each month during the academic year, upstairs at Strawberry Alley Ale Works in downtown Clarksville, with doors opening at 4:30 p.m.