Botanical specimens are preserved samples of plants used for scientific study and identification. These specimens can include leaves, flowers, seeds, and stems, which are collected and dried to maintain their structure and color. They are often mounted on sheets of paper and labeled with important information such as the plant's name, location, and date of collection. These specimens play a crucial role in fields like botany and ecology, helping researchers understand plant diversity and distribution. They are commonly stored in herbaria, which are specialized collections that facilitate research and education about plant life and its importance to ecosystems and human society.