From just a few plant specimens back in the late 1800s to now over 915,000, the Queensland Herbarium is one of the State’s most valuable but quiet achieving scientific institutions.
Botanists and members of the public continue to contribute thousands of specimens to the Herbarium collection each year, identifying new species and adding new distribution records to underpin biodiversity information in the state. However, the Herbarium’s collection and behind the scenes work remains a mystery to most – even to some who work elsewhere within the department.
The Science Engagement and Impact team collaborated with the Queensland Herbarium and Biodiversity Sciences team to create a virtual tour of the Herbarium. Through the tour you get a ‘behind the scenes’ look at facilities and the amazing work of our scientists and technical staff who prepare, identify and store valuable plant, fungi and lichen specimens. The Herbarium’s oldest specimen is from 1770!
You can conduct a self-guided tour by clicking through the building or watch a quick tour with videos by clicking the black triangle on the bottom left-hand corner. Wherever you see a blue triangle watch a short video explaining each area of the Herbarium.
We hope you enjoy learning about the operation of one of Queensland’s oldest scientific institutions – using modern technology. If you want to know more about how Queensland science is making a difference, what the video below.
Are you interested in a career in science? Learn more about careers at The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) today.
