Invertebrate Zoology

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Within the Department of Invertebrate Zoology, scientists conduct original research on all 30 major invertebrate animal groups (phyla) of the world (except insects), and are stewards for the 50 million specimens of invertebrates that comprise the U.S. National Collection. The study of invertebrates offers great challenges and opportunities to contribute to the world's knowledge of these organisms.

While the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History exhibition spaces will partially open to the public on June 18th, our collections remain closed to most staff and all researchers, and the museum’s COVID-19 loan moratorium remains in effect. Currently, there is no capacity to accommodate collections activities including visits, image requests, loans, and shipments. While there is no current date set for when on-site collections activities will resume, we will update as soon as this changes.

Gee Whiz Time! Wonder what specimens at the NMNH-IZ were collected by John Steinbeck?

At the Museum Support Center, there are a handful of collections affectionately dubbed "Gee Whiz!" for their outstanding wow factor. This time, we're taking a look at some of our specimens collected by none other than famous author John Steinbeck and his dear friend, marine biologist Ed Ricketts

Scans from a book including photographs of an octopus

Access to Our Collections

Our collection of over 50 million specimens are available for scientific research. Use the links below to request a loan of specimens, donate specimens to our collections, or schedule a visit.