Hidden data: recovery, safeguarding, and accessibility of the Hemiptera collection at the USP Zoology Museum as a tool to support evolutionary studies on stinkbugs.

• Grant number: 24/12886-8
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Zoology - Taxonomy of Recent Groups
• Principal Investigator: Talita Roell
• Grantee: Talita Roell
• Host Institution: Museu de Zoologia (MZ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Bruno Celso Feltrin Genevcius ; Jader de Oliveira ; Jeane Marcelle cavalcante do Nascimento ; Karina Lucas da Silva-Brandão ; Luiz Alexandre Campos
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/11725-3 - Identification key for the genera of Asopinae (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), BP.MS

Abstract

Natural History Museums are vital repositories of biodiversity's fundamental aspects, yet unlocking this treasure trove of information remains a considerable challenge. Two primary barriers impede access to the wealth of data contained within museum collections: firstly, the physical inaccessibility of biological specimens, and secondly, methodological challenges in extracting data from these specimens. A case in point is the Hemiptera Collection at the USP Zoology Museum (MZUSP), which suffers from a lack of specialist curatorial oversight. This is particularly concerning given its status as one of the most extensive Hemiptera collections in the Neotropics. To address these issues, this project aims to establish a new research direction at MZUSP, focusing on two key areas: 1) the curation of the Hemiptera Collection, and 2) systematic research on Hemiptera, with a particular focus on the Asopinae subfamily (Pentatomidae). This approach intends to explore the evolutionary traits of this group within a phylogenetic framework, utilizing both morphological and molecular data. Our goals extend to generating accessible data for those interested in this group and enhancing the skills of individuals in both systematic research and collection management and curation. Moreover, this project is committed to the broader objective of demystifying and disseminating scientific knowledge to the public through educational and cultural initiatives. By doing so, we aim to contribute significantly to the advancement of scientific literacy. (AU)