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The article discusses the physiological behavior of insects and animals. The authors considers day length, or photoperiod as factors that affects the physiology of both animals and plants. It controls the diurnal change in the shell color of the fiddler crab and the seasonal variation in the fur color of the snowshoe hare. The gradual change in the photoperiod throughout the year forms the most precise basis known for the timing of biological events.

The article reports on the identification of two genes that help insulin regulate mosquitoes' growth. They have been identified as key contributors to how the insects enter a dormant state to survive winter's cold. A new research found that a hormonal response is behind the mosquito's ability to store up extra fat and halt reproductive activity in preparation for its months-long dormancy.

This article reports on how some invertebrates and insects, notably Africa fly larvae Polypedilum vanderplanki, survive in extreme conditions by stopping their metabolisms and going into a state of suspended animation, or dormancy. Researchers are investigating Polypedilum vanderplanki to see how the cryptobiosis process works. The article also discusses the potential relevance to humans for blood transfusions, organ transplants, and one day being able to freeze-dry themselves.

The article offers a brief fact about crickets. Topics discussed include the temperature and describes the methodology used to determine the weather. Information is given regarding the number of times that a cricket chirps being closely related to actual degrees in Fahrenheit. Information pertaining to how to complete the calculations is also provided.