UM holds exhibition on Macao insect research to display around 1,400 insect specimens

The exhibition ‘Rediscovering Macao’s Wild: 135 New Insect Records – An Exhibition of the Entomological Legacy of Dr. Emmett R. Easton in Macao’ opened today (29 May) at the University of Macau (UM) Library. Jointly organised by the UM Centre for Macau Studies, the UM Alumni and Development Office, and the University of East Asia Open College Students’ Association, the exhibition displays around 1,400 insect specimens donated by Dr. Emmett R. Easton. All are welcome to visit.

Speaking at the event, UM Vice Rector Rui Martins said that the exhibition aims to reveal the diversity and intrinsic value of Macao’s ecosystem and to enhance public awareness of environmental conservation and scientific exploration in the long term. He added that the exhibition pays tribute to Dr Easton’s academic achievements and seeks to raise awareness of Macao’s ecological resources.

The specimens on display span 11 orders and 104 families, including 135 species that were newly recorded in Macao’s insect checklist. The exhibition also features information panels and macro photographs of the specimens to enhance visitors’ understanding.

During his tenure at UM in the 1990s, Dr Easton systematically initiated the investigation of insect fauna in Macao. He conducted extensive fieldwork in both urban and rural areas across the city and amassed a valuable collection of insect specimens, laying a critical foundation for entomology and ecological research in Macao. Upon leaving Macao in 1999, Dr Easton donated a portion of his insect specimens to UM. Over the following two decades, while residing in Hawaii, he continued his research on insect taxonomy and biodiversity. In his final years, he generously donated his entire collection to UM, including insect specimens, academic publications, and research manuscripts. Dr Easton passed away in 2025 at the age of 87.

The exhibition is on display in the Exhibition Hall of the UM Wu Yee Sun Library (E2-G007). It is open daily from 10:00am to 7:00pm, including public holidays, until 28 August 2026. Admission is free.