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"Hong Kong has a very rich insect fauna despite it is a highly-urbanised commercial city. The country parks and conservation programme have successfully preserved a wide range of indigenous insects," he said.
"Notwithstanding the negligible size of Hong Kong compared to China, one- twelfth of the mainland's insect species can be found locally."
Dr Lee also took the opportunity to thank the Sir Murray MacLehose Trust Fund and the Vegetable Marketing Organisation for sponsoring the construction costs of the buildings and the installation of the displays respectively. He also paid tribute to Mr William Lee for donating the lanternfly model for the insectarium.
The insectarium composes of an indoor display hall of 1,700 square feet and a net house of 2,000 square feet which provides a semi-natural environment for live insects.
It houses exhibits of over 1,000 insect species. The main focus is on indigenous species though some exotic ones are also included.
Exhibits are displayed in the form of live insects, specimens as well as descriptive panels and interesting games.
There are also a number of enlarged models, showing rare species or those important insects which are hard to be seen in the natural environment due to their small size.
Part of the information and specimens are contributed by the Natural History Museum (UK), the Booth Museum and governments from over 30 countries.
In addition, the Northwest Agricultural University, Shanghai Entomology Research Institute, Nanjing Institute of Termite Control, South China Agricultural University and Guangdong Entomological Institute have all contributed to the success of the insectarium through their valuable advice and assistance in various aspects.
Also present at today's opening ceremony were the District Governor of Lions Clubs International (Hong Kong and Macau), Mr So Chun-yu; LNEC Committee Chairman, Mr Shum Lok-nin; the Chairman of the Sai Kung District Board, Mr Ng Sze-fuk.
End