The McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity represents the largest collections-based research and education center in the world focused on butterflies and moths. The collections are taxonomically comprehensive and contain more than 10 million specimens, which are widely used by an ever-growing global community of students and scientists. The Center documents past and present patterns of biological diversity and forms the basis for research ranging from climate change and emerging agricultural pests, to evolution and biodiversity conservation.
Milestones and momentum
Looking back at our first 20 years helps shape our vision of what we hope to accomplish in the years to come. From extensive collections to innovative research to conservation initiatives, our community of scientists, students, volunteers and supporters has been making fundamental strides in our understanding of the vital role butterflies and moths play in the natural world.
Celebrating 20 YearsLatest Research
The frosted elfin butterfly returns home to North Florida
The spring sun glinted off the cars rolling through Ichetucknee Springs State Park, but the caravan wasn’t headed to the…
Florida Museum of Natural History among winners of Gainesville Beautification Award
At a recent ceremony, the Gainesville City Beautification Board recognized ten local businesses and organizations with the 2025 Gainesville...
Florida Museum announces 2025 Austin, biodiversity and Bullen award winners
The Florida Museum of Natural History has announced the winners of its annual Austin, biodiversity and Bullen graduate student awards,…
See more Lepidoptera research…
McGuire Center News
Student Spotlight: Jacob Bethin
People often encounter caterpillars in their gardens or walking along a nature trail. Most of us are not even aware…
Visiting Researchers
The McGuire Center was privileged to host visiting researchers in October and November 2023, through the Mr. Carl Wisler and…
Lepidoptera Conference at the McGuire Center
Two societies for studying Lepidoptera, the Southern Lepidopterists’ Society and the Association for Tropical Lepidoptera combined their annual meetings...