herbarium specimens
Herbarium specimens are preserved plant samples that are collected for scientific study. These specimens are typically dried, pressed, and mounted on sheets of paper, allowing researchers to examine their physical characteristics. Each specimen is labeled with important information, such as the plant's name, location, and date of collection, which helps in identifying and classifying the species.
Herbaria, the collections of these specimens, serve as valuable resources for botanists and ecologists. They provide essential data for studying plant diversity, distribution, and ecology. Herbarium specimens also play a crucial role in documenting changes in plant populations over time, contributing to conservation efforts and research in related fields like climate change and biodiversity.