Group photos of KU Entomology staff and students.

Entomology

We conduct research, training, education, and outreach on regional to global insect diversity, grounded in collections of 5 million specimens and associated data.

KU Entomology

#1
Largest number of digitized insects in North America
#1
Largest collection of Great Plains insects
#1
Largest number of bee species in the world
#5
Fifth largest university insect collection in North America

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Research

Entomology research uses collection-based studies, genomic data, and morphology, researchers seek to understand global insect diversity, biology, and evolutionary history. Current entomology research centers on Beetles (Coleoptera) and Bees & Wasps (Hymenoptera).

Postdoctoral research Samanta Orellena works reviews a box containing insect specimens.

Collections

The KU Entomology collections are estimated to contain over 4.9 million pinned and labeled specimens, in addition to preserved and slide specimens. Strengths include bees, aquatic beetles, and Midwestern, Mexican, and tropical insects.

Weevil from the KU Entomology collection.