Critical Upgrade to the University of Alaska Museum Insect Collection

University Of Alaska Fairbanks Campus, Fairbanks AK

Investigators

Abstract

A National Science Foundation award has been made to the University of Alaska Museum Insect Collection under the direction of Dr. Derek Sikes. This award will provide funds to replace the insect collection?s aging compactor units and unsound cabinets, providing a 25% increase in available collection space. This upgrade will virtually eliminate dangers to specimens from pests, relieve overcrowding, enable a consistent organization of the entire collection, make specimens safely accessible, facilitate specimen data-basing and digital photography efforts, and provide significant room for future growth. Insects are fundamental to non-marine ecology, of incredible interest to children and the public, and considerably impact human welfare. The insect collection is a key component of the Museum?s public and educational outreach program and is being increasingly used to understand Alaska?s poorly known insect fauna. The collection has recently been used to support the development of a field guide to the Insects of South Central Alaska and interactions with the public have grown significantly since the hiring of the Curator of Insects. This award will significantly enhance the value of this collection for both science and education. One graduate student and two or more undergraduate students will be hired and trained in collections-based entomology and public outreach.