Zed
Science 4x52'

Conquerors

The king crab, the pine processionary caterpillar, the lionfish and the fire ant. As far as biologists know, these four species are responsible for the fastest animal invasions in recent decades, making them the most successful invaders on the planet.

In their native habitats, however, these creatures form part of the ecological balance. But introduced by man into new territories, they wipe out other species, monopolize food supplies, and can be fiercely territorial, ultimately posing a threat to the existing biodiversity.

Who are these fearsome conquerors? How do they multiply so fast? What is the secret to their successful domination?

The scientific community is keen to answer these questions to better understand the threat they represent to biodiversity. Scientists also want to probe their capacity for genetic modification, behavioral change and reorganization of social hierarchy which allows them to establish unrivaled dominion over new territories.

With the help of these experts, we will discover the formidable biological advantages of these exceptional species, and will explore methods to control their expansion.

  • The Giant Crab of Kamtchatka
  • The Pine Processionnary Caterpillar
  • The Lionfish
  • The Fire Ant

Direction: Vincent Amouroux, Jérôme Ségur, Nicolas Gabriel & Bruno Victor-Pujebet

Production: ZED & ARTE France

Languages: French, English

awards & festivals

  • The World Festival of Sub-Marine Image (Marseille)

    Silver Palm (The Giant Crab)

  • The World Festival of Sub-Marine Image (Marseille)

    Jury's favorite (The Lionfish)

  • International Wildlife Film Festival 2014 (Albert)

    Grand Prize (The Pine Processionnary Caterpillar)

  • NaturVision Filmfestival

    Official Selection

  • Life Sciences Film Festival

    Selected

  • Gold Panda

    Official Selection

see also