Phil Torres, Author at bioGraphic

Phil Torres's Latest Articles

With its iridescent turquoise markings and four pairs of eyes, this jumping spider (Thania bhamoensis) is well-equipped to recognize and assess members of its own species. The spider’s large central eyes are responsible for acute vision and allow it to differentiate between potential mates and rivals. (Among other differences, females tend to be greener, while males are bluer.) Meanwhile, the spider’s three smaller pairs of eyes can detect movement on all sides, which comes in handy both when fighting off rivals and being on the lookout for potential prey.

The Rainforest Next Door

By Phil Torres

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December 5, 2017

Just minutes from a major metropolis, Malaysia’s Penang Hill rainforest boasts some of the richest backyard biodiversity on the planet.

Unlike most frogs in Yasuní, poison dart frogs are diurnal and are typically found sleeping on top of leaves at night. This species, the reticulated poison dart frog (Ranitomeya ventrimaculata), is a prime example, and was regularly seen in this position alongside trails.

Breaking Precious Ground

By Jason Goldman & Phil Torres

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January 10, 2017

Ecuador's Yasuní National Park may be the world's richest rainforest. What will become of it now that oil extraction has begun?