Short Description
In addition to the arachnids (spiders, scorpions, mites, harvestmen, pseudoscorpions, whip spiders, whip scorpions, etc.), the Arachnoidea collection also includes the taxonomic groups Xiphosura, Pantopoda, Pentastomida, Onychophora and Tardigrada.
The oldest parts of the collection date from the beginning of the 19th century. An important contribution was the acquisition of parts of the L. Koch collection by Steindachner in 1882/1884: 967 pieces, including type material. Today the collection of pseudoscorpions is one of the most important in the world thanks to the long-term activity of Dr. Max Beier, the world's leading specialist, in our museum. The spider collection is also of national importance for depositing types and other evidence from taxonomic and ecological-faunistic publications by Austrian and foreign scientists. Due to the extensive comparative material from different countries and "old" types, there is a brisk international loan exchange.
Contact Person
Mag. Christoph Hörweg
Research Services
Identification of arachnids possible upon request
Tissue samples for DNA analyses available for research projects with cooperation partners
Methods & Expertise for Research Infrastructure
The collection Arachnoidea may be used for a variety of studies. Beside classical mophological-taxonomic works we also support molecular analyses. Our global coverage mostly allows for a good sampling coverage for projects conducted in collaboration with our department. In addition to the native fauna, the focus is on the Balkans and other areas of Southeast Europe.