Seminar: Why is taxonomy so important?

Taxonomy underpins all biological sciences, and correct identification is essential. A species name allows you to search various databases, sources of literature to retrieve other published information on that species such as distribution, ecology, genetic data etc. Yet many species especially amongst the invertebrates still remain to be described. Taxonomy is not a static science and increasingly in the marine environment as we re-examine some previously described species, we find that they actually represent suites of species which can be resolved by molecular and additional morphological characters. It is really important that taxonomists work closely with other biologists both within and between institutions at national and international levels. Museum collections are critically important in documenting biodiversity. Well organised and databased collections are nationally important to document changes in distributions with climate change or distinguishing between native and introduced species for example. We are facing a critical time for taxonomy where many museums are experiencing reduced funding and hence loss of positions. This discourages students from undertaking taxonomic research if they can see no career paths.

26/06/2024

11h

Sala de seminarios del Complex de Recerca del Parc Bit

Dra. Pat Hutchings https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Pat-Hutchings