CyberFlora Louisiana

The University Of Louisiana At Monroe, Monroe LA

Investigators

Abstract

Through a National Science Foundation award, 1.1 million plant specimens in the 15 Louisiana herbaria will be imaged during a three-year project. Collection information will be extracted from the labels with software tools to develop electronic databases. The digitized images and data will be freely available online through a central website called CyberFlora Louisiana. It will offer fast data sorting and filtering, rapid delivery of zoomable images, mapping of specimen locations, and checklists of plants for particular locations. The website will be supplemented with digital images of plants, plant parts, and identifying features for species found in Louisiana. Visual identification keys will be developed that are easier to use than traditional ones with difficult terminology. Imaging, databasing, and geo-referencing all the state?s collections would significantly increase the value and utilization of these important resources, especially for local, state, and federal agencies that need to consult the herbaria regularly. As one of the first statewide projects in the nation, it will serve as a model for other state networks. An online collection of plant information will increase appreciation of the importance of Louisiana?s plants and their conservation. For schools, museums, wildlife refuges, and parks, the availability of live plant images, keys, and useful information will also stimulate more interest in plants.