Royal Society Te Apārangi Review of Taxonomic Collections

More resources and a coordinated approach are needed to safeguard and grow New Zealand’s taxonomic collections says a report from an expert panel of Royal Society Te Apārangi.

The 2015 review brings together a wide range of inter-disciplinary evidence about the state and future potential of New Zealand’s taxonomic collections. It highlights the intrinsic value of the collections to supporting sectors of New Zealand life from economic growth to human health. In addition, the report demonstrates the importance of taxonomy – the science of how we understand New Zealand’s living things – by allowing us to identify native and non-native species including pests, weeds and toxic organisms.

The report makes a number of recommendations and states that Aotearoa – New Zealand should strive to have deep and comprehensive knowledge of its biota across its lands, fresh waters, and surrounding seas that:

  • defines New Zealand’s evolution, uniqueness and cultural icons,

  • allows New Zealand to sustainably manage its natural resources and economic opportunities,

  • protects New Zealanders’ health and well-being,

  • allows New Zealand to stand tall in the international community in meeting its global obligations.

The full report is available from Royal Society Te Apārangi.

 
 
Tonielle Purdy