Forschungsabteilungen zu Insekten

Senckenberg German Entomological Institute

Müncheberg

Since 1886 the SDEI focuses on taxonomic and systematic research but also biogeography and ecology. Meanwhile connecting researchers all over the globe by its remarkable insect collection, entomogical library and archive.

Entomology I

Our research program lies at the interface of integrative taxonomic-systematics, ecological biogeography, and bioinformatic modeling, with a particular focus on probing macroecology and macroevolutionary questions. Particular emphasis is placed on unveiling evolutionary processes shaping the evolution of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae), a superfamily of over 40,000 species.

Entomology II

The collections of Entomology II comprise the Hymenoptera and “Insecta Varia” (apterygote orders, Polyneoptera, Psocodea, Hemiptera, Neuropterida, Siphonaptera, and Mecoptera).

Entomology III  – Lepidoptera and Trichoptera

The Entomology III team conducts research into the evolution, speciation, ecological adaptation and distribution primarily of caddisflies and moths.

Palaeoentomology

The section Palaeoentomology manages and curates the collection of fossil invertebrates, mostly fossil Insects, from the Messel pit fossil site. Due to excavations in the Messel pi, each year new finds get integrated into the collection.

Coleoptera

Lepidoptera

Butterflies and Moths

In the entire realm of organisms the butterflies and moths are the largest community of descent of herbivorous species. So far about 160,000 species have been described, but it is estimated that 500,000 butterfly and moth species live on Earth. About 1,000 new species are described each year.