The predecessor of the IOZ was the Fan Memorial Institute of Biology established in 1928. In 1950, two separate organizations, the Laboratory of Entomology, and the Committee for Animal Specimens, were established. These two institutions later became the Institute of Entomology and the Institute of Zoology, respectively. They merged into the present IOZ in 1962. IOZ has 12 Members (academicians) of Chinese Academy of Sciences. IOZ has made great contributions in the fields of national investigation of natural resources, establishment of nature reserve, anti-bacteriological warfare, control and management of pest animals, conservation of rare and endangered animals, reproduction and contraception.