NHC&S - Natural History Collections & Systematics

NHC&S, based at MUHNAC, is dedicated to unravelling the origin and diversification of Macaronesian and Iberian flora through the utilisation of various models, including animals, fungi, bryophytes, lichens, and vascular plants.

Our objectives include deepening our knowledge of key native habitats to identify the main factors driving taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity.

We also aim to expand and curate specimens in natural history collections at MUHNAC, intending to establish a comprehensive and representative repository of biodiversity. Additionally, we strive to strengthen the DNA Bank by acquiring and cataloguing DNA vouchers, ensuring a robust genetic database for various species. NHC&S remains committed to biodiversity conservation in-situ and ex-situ. The goal is to safeguard, restore, and promote the sustainable utilisation of terrestrial ecosystems, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.

The focus on science education research within our group aims to optimise results in terms of educating and communicating about R&D activities. In the coming years, our research group aims to reinforce collaboration with the ERGA Initiative/Biodiversity Genomics Europe (BGE) to develop genomic tools for the effective conservation of Portuguese biodiversity.

Furthermore, our group will pursue training and outreach efforts, including scientific workshops, communicating science to non-specialist audiences, participating in citizen-science programmes, organising exhibitions, and engaging in other broad-audience outreach activities.

NHC&S will reinforce its commitment to CE3C’s research goals and objectives (TL1, TL2, TL3), addressing crucial points raised by international and European agendas and institutions, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the International Union for Conservation of Nature.