Scientific Enquiries
The Mammal section receives a range of scientific enquires each day, mostly via email. These enquiries come from:
- researchers and students within Australia and overseas
- professionals from other government agencies (such as museums, state environmental agencies, etc.)
- private companies
- the public
The types of information or assistance required can be grouped into three main categories: requests for access to specimens; access to specimen data; and provision of scientific advice.
Access to specimens and frozen tissue samples
One of the most important uses of the Museum's vast collections is for scientific research. Specimens in the Mammal collection are available for a broad range of research topics including; studies of systematics, evolution, biogeography, ecology, reproduction and anatomy. Researchers and students are able to use the collection on site, or if they are based interstate or overseas, then specimens may be lent to them via another museum. A few examples of the types of research carried out using the Mammal collection are:
- Studies examining the evolutionary relationships of species based on measurements made from skulls or analysis of DNA extracted from frozen tissue samples e.g. the relationships between dingos and New Guinea wild dogs, systematics of New Guinea rodents, systematics and biogeography of world fox populations.
- Studies examining the origins and evolution of locomotion in groups such as rodents, macropods and gliding possums, using measurements taken from study skins or skeletons.
- Histological or anatomical studies using samples extracted from specimens preserved in ethanol.
Specimens are also used for educational programs such as public exhibitions or training courses run by universities, TAFE colleges or community groups.
Provision of scientific advice
The section also provides advice and assistance through the identification of mammal sightings or finds (e.g. skulls, skeletons, teeth etc.), access to the scientific literature, contacts within the scientific community and review of policy (such as proposed listing of endangered species, advisory committees), manuscripts etc. and input to Museum exhibitions.
Copyright © Australian Museum, 2003
