about us
It is of the utmost importance that these should be identified, that is, the Plant Board should learn what they are, whether they are new to the State of Florida and whether of an injurious nature. Only by such vigilance can the introduction or spread of new pests be prevented.
- Dr. Wilmon Newell -
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Division of Plant Industry is the hosting institution for the Florida State Collection of Arthropods, Museum of Entomology. The division maintains and develops the museum’s collection, which houses specimens from around the world and is ranked among the top 10 North American entomological collections. The collection features thousands of drawers, slides and vials containing an estimated 10 million prepared specimens. Millions more specimens are held in bulk alcohol containers and various dry samples.
The museum contributes to the department’s mission of protecting Florida agriculture by serving as a major reference collection for the many pests and diseases routinely submitted for identification.
The Florida State Collection of Arthropods offers an array of helpful and educational services to raise awareness of arthropods and their impact in our world. We encourage everyone to take advantage of the services offered by the museum.
The Museum of Entomology (FSCA) is open to researchers from all over the world, and tours for local school classes and individuals are available. Please feel free to contact us and request information on receiving a tour.
Need help determining what kind of bug you found outside? Here’s how to properly submit a plant or insect specimen to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) for identification.
The FSCA encourages the donation of specimens and actively works with donors so that the donations benefit both the FSCA and the donor.
IT’S NOT SO MUCH HOW BUSY YOU ARE, BUT WHY.
THE BEE IS PRAISED, THE MOSQUITO IS SWATTED
THE FSCA
EDUCATIONAL ARTHROPODS
The Florida State Collection of Arthropods (FSCA) features thousands of drawers, slides and vials containing an estimated 10 million prepared specimens. Millions more specimens are held in bulk alcohol containers and various dry samples.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is posting publications for free on its website before they appear in print. To view/print the publications currently available, please see below. Printed hard copies of publications from FDACS are also available for a small fee plus shipping costs.
It’s easy to plan a visit to the Florida State Collection of Arthropods (FSCA), Museum of Entomology. Admission is free, and the museum is open to researchers, groups, students and individuals. The FSCA Museum of Entomology boasts one of the largest arthropod collections in the world is an educational and fun experience for all ages.