Welcome to the Department of Entomology! Insects and arachnids (spiders and their kin) account for more than four-fifths of the described species in the world. These web pages have been created to provide more information about the collection, departmental staff, and on-line resources. As you search through these pages, we hope that you will sense some of the same excitement that we experience working with these colorful and fascinating creatures.
Entomology Collections
The collection of the California Academy of Sciences is one of the four largest entomology collections in North America. It contains about 10,000,000 curated specimens, representing all orders, nearly all families, and approximately 250,000 species of insects, myriapods, and arachnids. Taxonomic strengths of the collection reflect the past and present research interests of the curators, including Coleoptera (beetles), Embiidina (web spinners), Diptera (flies), Hymenoptera (ants, bees and wasps), Neuropteroida and Arachnida (spiders). Geographic strengths of the collection include western North America, Baja California, the Galapagos Islands, western South America, the Philippines, the Indo-Australian region, Africa, and most recently Madagascar. |
About the Department
General information and a brief history of the Department of Entomology
Entomology Personnel |
Entomology Curators, Collection managers,Curatorial assistants, Graduate assistants and research associates.
General Collections |
Explore our vast collection of ants, beetles, spiders, and many other arthropods.
Collection Databases |
Search our online Type Collection Database.
Entomology Resources |
Get in-depth information of our work in the field of Entomology.
Courses & Workshops |
The department of Entomology offers regular courses and workshops for the public and colleagues alike.
Contact Us |
For general inquiries about the Department of Entomology please contact:
Entomology Administrator
415-379-5310
entomology@calacademy.org