Signify is a project that aims to document and digitize 10,000 natural history objects collected in Singapore over the past 200 years. The focus of this project is on so-called type specimens - the reference objects on which scientific names are based, which are essential for studying and distinguishing species. These 10,000 specimens are scattered in museums worldwide, including about 50 at Naturalis.
Online accessto the collection
Signify will help to make historical specimens digital available and foster research collaborations. All digitized material will be freely and openly available through the web platforms of partner institutions (such as Naturalis' bioportal) and through the Signify website. Each digitized specimen will include not only high-resolution images, but also accompanying information about the collecting site, and where possible, the history of the object.
Digital copies will provide anytime, anywhere access, maximizing the potential and reach of historical collections, and minimizing risks to fragile, often ancient specimens. This will also reduce the negative effects of both specimens and researchers having to travel long distances. This is of particular importance in a post-pandemic world struggling with climate change and biodiversity loss.
The project at Naturalis
By using our combined expertise in digitization, we make natural history collection accessible to anyone in the world. This collaboration provides us a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences in both physical and digital collection management. It enables us to preserve our precious collection for future generations, and to discover and appreciate the rich diversity of our world.
VideoSignify & Naturalis
Moreinformation
- SIGNIFY (Singapore in Global Natural History Museums Information Facility) is a five-year project established by the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum (LKCNHM) at the Faculty of Science of the National University of Singapore (NUS).
Signify pagina - Naturalis Bioportal: Browse Naturalis' natural history collection
Bioportal - More about our digitization projects:
Herbarium
Picturae
DiSSCo