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In recent years, the study of insect morphology has benefited greatly from the emergence of new digital imaging and analysis technologies such as X-ray micro-computed tomography (μ-CT), digital 3D reconstruction, and animation. Through interactive gaming and virtual reality, the external morphology of insects can be studied by a broad audience of both entomologists and non-specialists. EntomonVR is a serious game designed to investigate the external morphology of insects with adequate quality for the virtual reality platform. We discuss the advantages of virtual reality, introduce the EntomonVR new educational game, and conclude about future perspectives, validations, and cost-effectiveness. For game assessment, we have tested this game on 25 participants with an entomological background and improved the game based on their feedback. This study demonstrates the efficacy of virtual reality technology for an experimental learning environment in teaching the morphology of insects and the crucial needs for advancing an efficient and interactive educational program.

The potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to shape research and education is a highly topical issue. The recent release of ChatGPT (Chat Generative Pre‐trained Transformer) by OpenAI on November 30, 2022 has opened up new possibilities for the use of chatbot services in ecological research and education. In this perspective article, we address associated contemporary topics including the use of chatbot services in ecology education and academic writing, the application of AI in ecology, the potential environmental impact, and ethical considerations of using such services. Several logistical, ethical and environmental factors were identified that should be considered in the context of ecological research. We argue that ChatGPT can help reduce the workload of researchers, generate new insights and ideas, and serve as a personal instructor and assistant for students. While we show how AI chatbots have the potential to be useful assets for ecologists, several challenges arose. AI in ecological research includes the limited ability of AI algorithms to capture complexity and nuance, the dependence of AI models on data quality, and ethical concerns about the use of AI in research. The construction and operation of such services also have potential environmental impacts but may also provide environmental benefits in comparison with other conventional approaches, all of which should be evaluated. Despite these limitations and challenges, we consider that the use of AI can be a valuable tool in ecological research and could enhance the speed and efficiency of research by automating certain tasks (e.g. data collection and management) and analyzing large amounts of data. However, we emphasize the importance of taking a responsible, sustainable and transparent approach to using chatbot services and AI in ecological research and education, while remaining mindful of the potential impact on the environment, society, and ethical concerns.