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Eduardo PR1*, Benito R1 and Darko DC1,2
1Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Chile
2Department of Entomology, California Academy of Sciences, USA
*Corresponding author:R Eduardo Palma, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Av Libertador Bernardo O Higgins 340, Santiago 833150, Chile
Submission: April 09, 2024; Published: June 28, 2024
ISSN : 2640-9275Volume4 Issue5
In an era marked by escalating threats to global biodiversity and a surge in species facing extinction, museums and biological collections emerge as vital repositories of our planet’s biological heritage. These collections, analogous to ‘biodiversity libraries’, allow the preservation of specimens, tissues, and genetic materials representing various life forms. They serve as indispensable reservoirs for scientific study and consultation, and need of our collective responsibility to safeguard and expand them. Biological collections, particularly when integrated with academic research centers, play a pivotal role in advancing scientific inquiry and education. Moreover, they serve as invaluable resources for public engagement and education, fostering greater awareness and understanding of biodiversity within communities. Illustrative examples underscore the profound impact of scientific collections, ranging from the discovery of new species to pioneering genetic studies unraveling historical population dynamics. One of these repositories, the Professor Patricio Sánchez Reyes Flora and Fauna Collection housed at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago de Chile, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of its founder’s vision. The collection, has not only expanded in size, but has also catalyzed numerous research endeavors, educational initiatives, and public outreach programs. As the faculty of Biological Sciences undergoes transformative changes aimed to reinforce its scientific prominence, the preservation and enhancement of the Patricio Sánchez Reyes Collection emerge as an imperative objective. Its continued support and integration within the university’s developmental framework are essential to uphold its stature as a premier hub of natural history collections in Chile and the region, and enhancing the institution’s commitment to preserving our biodiversity heritage.
Keywords:Biological collections; Biodiversity; Catholic university; Chile