Entomological Society of Queensland

supporting entomological research in Australia since 1923

The Society's emblem, chosen in 1973, on the 50th anniversary of the Society, is the King Stag Beetle, Phalacrognathus muelleri (Macleay), Family Lucanidae (Coleoptera). Its magnificent purple and green colouration makes it one of the most attractive beetle species in Australia. It is restricted to the rainforests of northern Queensland.

Archive of past Queensland Entomologists

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Kenneth John HOUSTON (1951-1991)

Ken Houston was born Warwick and grew up there and in Toowoomba. Enrolled in Science at University of Queensland in 1969 and graduated B.Sc. in 1971, majoring in both entomology and genetics. Joined Department of Primary Industries in 1972 as a taxonomist in the insect collection unit at Indooroopilly. Developed expertise in difficult groups such as mites, thrips, aphids, ants and immature insects. Gained M.Sc. from UQ in 1983 for work on variation and inheritance of colour patterns of polymorphic Coccinellidae. Became Australian authority on taxonomy of coccinellids and collaborated with R. D. Pope at the British Museum in London where he visited in 1984. Also collaborated with British Museum’s L. A. Mound on 1987 catalogue of Australian thrips.  Was custodian of DPI specimen loan service, curated the Coleoptera, Orthoptera and spirit collection, and maintained the Bibliography. Treasurer of Entomological Society of Queensland 1989-1991.

BIOGRAPHY: Cantrell, B. K. 1991. Obituary, Kenneth John Houston 1951-1991.  News Bulletin of the Entomological Society of Queensland  19(2): 28-29.