Photo: Yankee Jedi
In the district of Quinua, Ayacucho, there is a hidden place that invites us to see the “small” with new eyes. The Ayacucho Insect Museum (MIYA Waylis), led by Jedy Yanqui, is not just an educational space, but a sanctuary that seeks to change our perception of insects and their crucial role in the ecosystem.
This museum has become a gathering place for those who want to learn more about biodiversity, especially about arthropods—creatures that many consider insignificant, yet play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
Jedy Yanqui, a passionate biologist, has always had a special connection with nature. From a young age, her fascination with insects grew as she observed how these tiny creatures play a crucial role in the natural balance.
“I was inspired by the harmful practices committed against them: forest fires, the use of agrochemicals, and urbanization. All these factors have drastically reduced the population of species that were once commonly seen. People don’t understand that every specimen has a role in life, and by harming them, we are affecting their existence and the future of our biodiversity,”, he explains.
The museum not only displays rescued species but also serves as an environmental education center, where students, tourists, and the general public can learn about the importance of insects in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. Thanks to Jedy’s leadership and the community’s interest, the museum has established itself as a pioneering initiative in the region.
The funding secured through Emprendedores por Naturaleza will enable the creation of an exhibition space equipped with materials and equipment to provide a hands-on environmental education experience. In addition, new research equipment and materials will be purchased, along with more entomological boxes and specimens, thereby strengthening the museum’s educational efforts.
Photo: Ayacucho Insect Museum – MIYA Waylis
