ATBE
-Association of Type B metamorphosis Entomologists-
overview
The Association of Type B metamorphosis Entomologists (ATBE) is the largest organization in the world serving the professional and scientific needs of Type B metamorphosis entomologists. As a result of the findings of the 1973 research party in Michoacan state, Mexico, the association was founded. It was the first devoted solely to Type B study, with the contribution of James Smith Sr it was founded in 1976. It was about a half century after the first Type B was discovered in Holland, the association has been contributing greatly to the understanding of these mysterious plant-like stages of insect mutation. Diverse reports of Type B metamorphosis have appeared since then. In spite of numerous reports from around the world, most parts of the Type B metamorphosis ecology are still unknown. According to the latest report, 46 species of butterfly are probable to develop to Type B metamorphosis, but it is still not clear how many of the insects manifest the mutation.
In 1985, the study of Fungus Caterpillar were also added to the ATBE's mission due to the decipherment of Egyptian Hieroglyph. The new study gave an account that one of the untranslated Cursive hieroglyph's could represent a "Fungus caterpillar". This indicates the possibility of it's usage in ancient Egyptian medicine.
Following attentive researches, these two very similar, exceptional mutations are resolved to be both classified to Animalia (Insecta) rather than to Platae or Fungi. The actual specimens of Type B metamorphosis are unfortunately in a small number, and there are even fewer Fungus caterpillars exemplifications. Unfortunately, until now the study of Type B Metamorphosis and Fungus caterpillars obtains very limited recognition. ATBE endeavor to call public attention to its mission and encourages all entomologists and others interested in furthering the development of Type B study to join the association and work with the international network. Annual participation is open to individuals and institutions worldwide.