Entomology Collection Search


The KU Entomology specimen-level database can be searched and individual data-sets downloaded via the Specify Entomology database. Those specifically interested in aquatic insects should also search our Specify Aquatic Insects database

Our data is also provided to the external aggregators Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)iDigBio, and Discover Life.

Our databases contains over a million individually digitized specimens but represents less than a quarter of our physical holdings. The main database is particularly strong in World Apoidea, Nearctic and Neotropical Coleoptera, Nearctic Nepomorpha Great Plains Orthoptera and aquatic insects. Other important sections, such as the Mecoptera, are currently poorly represented in the database. If you cannot find the taxa or data you are looking for using the above links, please contact Zack Falin for assistance.

We are also compiling up-to-date, comprehensive lists of our taxonomic holdings independent of our specimen database, as well as a type catalog. 

When citing data, please reference the University of Kansas Biodiversity Institute data publication and use norms.

Accessible versions of specific content included below will be made available upon request. Please contact KU Biodiversity Institute and Natural History Museum at biodiversity@ku.edu for assistance.