Crete is the largest island of the Aegean. High mountains, numerous gorges and a plethora of caves have contributed enormously to Crete's environmental diversity. Because of the insularity the rate of evolution in this corner of the Mediterranean is obvious. Scientists from various disciplines consider the Aegean archipelago as one of the most important natural laboratories. Characteristic animal and plant species are exhibited according to their ecological groupings.
Emphasis is given to the endemic plants and animals.
The geological evolution of the area is presented through characteristic rocks and fossil plants and animals. Part of the photographic archive of the Museum, which is also on exhibition, covers the most characteristic animals, plants, rock-formations and pictures of the Aegean islands. The Museum of Natural History of the University of Crete was established in the early '80's. Today the botanical and zoological collections are rich especially in invertebrates, mammals and flowering plants. During the last two years, there have been three exhibitions on the natural environment of Crete, in parallel to the scientific research conducted by the Museum.