Biology Professor, Computer Science Students Create Teaching Game About Parasitic Wasps
Biology Professor, Computer Science Students Create Teaching Game About Parasitic Wasps
Biology Professor, Computer Science Students Create Teaching Game About Parasitic Wasps
Ana Hidalgo
September, 19, 2025
Summary
The Crawling Dead is a new educational desktop game that turns parasitic wasps into ecological heroes, teaching players about their vital role in pest control. Developed by UCF computer science students and based on Professor Barbara Sharanowski’s research, the game blends biology with interactive learning. Players act as scientists customizing wasps with traits like paralytic venom or long ovipositors to protect a national park from invasive pests. Funded by the NSF, the project highlights wasp–virus symbiosis and showcases the diversity and ecological value of parasitic wasps. A mobile version is in development to expand public engagement with entomology.
Reference
Hidalgo, A. (2025, September 19). Biology professor, computer science students create teaching game about parasitic wasps. UCF News. https://www.ucf.edu/news/biology-professor-computer-science-students-create-teaching-game-about-parasitic-wasps/