Explorer Classroom
Planet of the Snails and Spiders
Grade / Age
Duration
Slide into the fun world of snails and spiders with conservation biologist Martina Panisi!
Credit: Explorer Submitted Image
Event Recording
About This Event
Explorer Martina Panisi is a conservation biologist and environmental educator whose work focuses on highlighting the value and diversity of invertebrates. Discover fascinating facts about one of the world's largest snails and the spiders that rule the desert. Prepare to fall in love with these magnificent but often-overlooked invertebrates!
Resources
Earth Day Short Video: Martina Panisi Earth Day
Educator resource: Explorer Mindset in Action Guide
Viewing Instructions- prepare for the event with these tips.
Featured Explorer
National Geographic Explorers are an international community of changemakers, who use the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world, while inspiring the next generation to do the same.
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