The 9th Asian Arachnological Conference took place in Vang Vieng, Laos, from November 10 to 14. Kazakhstan was represented by Leonid Kim — Junior Researcher at the Laboratory of Arachnology and Other Invertebrates and Chair of the Council of Young Scientists of the Institute of Zoology.
During the poster session, Leonid Kim presented ongoing research on arachnids in Kazakhstan and discussed prospects for its further development. Participation in this event marked an important step in integrating not only into the Asian but also the global arachnological network. The next milestone will be the 10th Asian Arachnological Conference, which will take place in Almaty in 2027.
In the photo: Leonid Kim
The conference brought together 99 participants from 28 countries — a real “Spider-Verse”! The discussions covered various aspects of arachnid life (except mites), including spiders, scorpions, pseudoscorpions, and harvestmen. The participants presented new discoveries in arachnid ecology, behavior, and taxonomy, sharing insights into the remarkable adaptations of these eight-legged creatures.
In addition to presentations, poster sessions, and discussions, the organizers prepared a rich cultural program. Participants visited the famous Blue Lagoon at the base of a limestone cliff in Inter Park, explored the longest cave in the area, and enjoyed field trips around Vang Vieng — including “night hunts,” where they shared field collection and macro photography techniques.
And of course — participation in the legendary Peace Party!
This traditional arachnological community event invites each participant to bring a piece of their national culture and cuisine to share during the international buffet.
Leonid Kim brought Kazakh chocolate and kurt to Laos — not everyone understood its taste, but many found it delicious! And in 2027, arachnologists from around the world will have the chance to taste Kazakh national cuisine at the 10th Asian Conference of Arachnology (ACA) in Almaty!
29.11.2025
Photos by: Leonid Kim and conference organizers