Reconstructing museum specimen data through the pathways of global commerce

Summary

This project aims to reconnect zoological specimens with vital collection data. From 1758-1900 millions of specimens were commercially traded to and between museums and collectors, frequently without retaining the data associated with the specimen. This project pioneers spectroscopic techniques to reconstruct data and enhance material conservation practice. The impact of the project will provide new pathways for recovering lost ecological data, creating a resource to improve future biodiversity research.

Investigator

Professor Deirdre Coleman (the University of Melbourne)

^{Image: Col Ford and Natasha de Vere. Seeds at the Santos Museum of Economic Botany at Adelaide Botanic Garden - South Australia 2011 (detail) CC-2.0 Generic PD-US}