'Hidden time-capsule of UK biodiversity' unlocked
The specimens with links to Charles Darwin will soon be studied by scientists across the world.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"Until it is digitised, and the metadata collated, we have no way, other than manually sifting through the handwritten sheets, to know exactly what the collection holds, so this rich seam of data is effectively 'hidden' natural heritage."
— Dr Kelly Hemmings , Academic
"The immense value of historic herbarium collections for tackling current environmental issues is now being recognised."
— Dr Kelly Hemmings , Academic
"Archives are only useful if we can get the information out of dusty drawers and into current research, teaching, and wider conversations."
— Cassie Newland , Academic
Key People
Tags
All Coverage
The specimens with links to Charles Darwin will soon be studied by scientists across the world.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Hidden moth population found after 70 years
Dr Dave Wainwright describes the discovery as one of the highlights of his career.
August 14, 2026 at 05:07 AMWork on £1.5m nature reserve to start next month
A charity says the nature reserve will be a "very special thing" for the town once complete.
August 18, 2026 at 01:25 PMBBC Inside Science
Researchers have announced synthetic viruses designed by artificial intelligence.
August 13, 2026 at 08:00 PMBrexit rules put strain on zoo's conservation work
Staffs at Twycross Zoo say they need new laws to make it easier to transport animals globally.
August 13, 2026 at 05:08 AMVolunteers work to reopen city's old observatory
Newchapel Observatory was considered revolutionary when it was built in the 1960's.
August 13, 2026 at 05:16 AMRare cows part of estate's rewilding project
White Park cattle arrive at the Castle Howard estate in North Yorkshire to support conservation.
August 19, 2026 at 06:13 AM