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The new research explores the origins of fairy circles: barren patches over the top of both active and old termite colonies, which are widespread across desert spinifex grasslands, resulting in polka dot patterns. Earlier research had concluded that fairy circles came about from plants competing for water and nutrients. However, when this research team worked with Aboriginal people to look at their practices and stories, art and designs, they arrived at different conclusions. “I remain surprised by what we've learnt about termites and pavements. It's as if something widely visible to Aboriginal people has been ‘hiding in plain sight’ to contemporary ecologists. Our learnings were led by Aboriginal people’s knowledge," said Dr Walsh. “The Academy grant brought benefits far greater than anticipated. The funding was essential, but also the Academy’s validation of the research concept and the recognition that goes with an Academy award, gave the project vital impetus too.” View the research published in Nature Ecology & Evolution: https://t.co/fE4JPUcp4m Images: Gladys Karimarra Bidu, left, and Dr Fiona Walsh. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 Painting by Anmatyerr, Warlpiri and Arrernte man Kaapa Tjampitjinpa, titled ‘Watanuma’ (edible flying termites) shows regularly spaced termite pavements. It predates recorded plane and drone observations of pavements. National Museum of Australia, © estate of the artist, licensed by Papunya Tula Artists and Aboriginal Artists Agency for this research. Figure 1 b in paper CC-NC-A-ND An aerial view of spinifex-covered ground. Termite chambers found within consolidated soils of the termitaria. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 #IndigenousScience #AusScience