DIGITAL HERBARIUM DATABASES

摘要

Herbarium database is a computational method, where the information about the herbarium specimens are digitalized in such a way that it is easily accessible with the help of Internet and World Wide Web (WWW) throughout the world. The modern databasesalso include the actual herbarium specimens as digital images with all accompanying information available on the herbarium sheet label. Herbarium databases are also available in the form of Compact Discs. With the advancement in the development of herbarium databases, the Taxonomists around the world can share the information about herbarium specimens stored in a herbarium by considerably cutting down the cost and time. However, based on the application, management, utility and other factors, the herbarium database has its own merits and demerits. The present paper deals with development of a herbarium database in Central National Herbarium (CAL), Botanical Survey of India, Howrah and its future prospects.