Akito Kawahara

Akito Kawahara is an accomplished entomologist and the McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity Director at the Florida Museum of Natural History, affiliated with the University of Florida. Additionally, he holds the positions of Curator at the museum and Professor at the university. In 2023, he was appointed the Director of the McGuire Center, which houses one of the world's largest and most diverse collections of butterflies and moths, with over 10 million specimens. His primary focus at the center is to enhance research and educational programs surrounding the study of Lepidoptera.

Kawahara’s research revolves around understanding the evolutionary development of butterflies and moths, collectively known as Lepidoptera, which make up roughly 160,000 species worldwide. He is particularly interested in how these insects have evolved, examining their genetic makeup, behavioral patterns, and ecological interactions. One of his significant research areas explores how moths have developed ultrasound capabilities to defend themselves from predators, particularly bats that use echolocation. This unique defense mechanism provides insight into the fascinating relationships between predator and prey and how these interactions influence evolutionary processes.

In his lab, Kawahara uses various research methods to study the diversity of insect life. His team explores the evolutionary factors contributing to the wide range of insect species, investigating how nocturnal and diurnal flight patterns influence evolutionary development. One of the key areas of focus is the evolution of ultrasonic hearing in moths and how this ability helps them detect and evade predators like bats. In addition, he and his colleagues examine how human activity, such as habitat destruction and light pollution, affects Lepidoptera populations and biodiversity more broadly.

Kawahara’s work has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards and honors. He has received the John Henry Comstock Award from the Entomological Society of America and the Alexander B. Klots Award from the Lepidopterists’ Society of America. Furthermore, he has led over 20 major research projects, securing over $13 million in funding from the National Science Foundation and other agencies. His research contributions have been published in more than 200 peer-reviewed papers, many appearing in high-impact journals like Science and PNAS.

In addition to his academic achievements, Kawahara has made notable appearances in various media outlets. He has been featured in documentaries such as PBS’s American Spring Live, Nature’s Sex, Lies, and Butterflies, and David Attenborough’s Conquest of the Skies. His TED Talk, “Why You Can Thank a Moth,” sheds light on moths' essential roles in pollination, silk production, and other industries. He also actively engages in public outreach, volunteering to teach students about the significance of butterflies and moths in ecosystems.

Before joining the Florida Museum of Natural History, Kawahara earned his undergraduate degree in Entomology from Cornell University and a Master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Maryland. His doctoral research focused on the phylogenetics of leaf-mining moths, and his Master’s thesis explored the evolution of hawkmoths. He has held various academic positions, including post-doctoral work at the University of Hawaii and research roles at the University of Maryland.

Outside his professional work, Kawahara enjoys outdoor activities such as basketball, tennis, and billiards. He is also passionate about drawing and spending time with his two children. He is bilingual in Japanese and English and knows Spanish and Chinese. Born in New York City, he spent part of his childhood traveling between New York and Tokyo, shaping his multicultural background. He currently divides his time between Florida and New York.

Through his research, public outreach, and educational efforts, Akito Kawahara continues to contribute significantly to studying butterflies and moths and their role in biodiversity. His work helps increase awareness and appreciation of these fascinating creatures and their vital role in ecosystems worldwide.