Linnean Lens Event Lecture

Introduction

• The Linnean Society hosts an event, focusing on objects within their collection.
• Dr. Mark Spencer presents on Carl Linnaeus and his important work, Species Plantarum.
• Dr. Spencer is a former senior botany curator at the Natural History Museum.

Carl Linnaeus and His Work

• Linnaeus is a monumental figure in scientific taxonomy.
• Species Plantarum is pivotal in modern botanical nomenclature.
• Linnaeus developed a binomial nomenclature system, simplifying the classification of plants.

Importance of Binomial Nomenclature

• Allows for a standardized naming system for global communication and study.
• Names provide a foundation for adding comprehensive information about plants.

Linnaeus's Influence and Methodology

• Derived inspiration from previous botanists like the Bauhin brothers.
• Linnaeus's system was artificial but provided an efficient retrieval system for information.
• His collection methods and classification laid the groundwork for modern herbaria.

Linnaean Collections and Their Impact

• Linnaeus's collections are housed at the Linnean Society in London.
• These collections demonstrate the evolution from his time to modern practices.
• Linnaean specimens are crucial for scientific research and understanding biodiversity.

Linnaeus’s Sexual System

• Classification required counting plant reproductive parts (stamens and pistils).
• Though foundational, Linnaeus acknowledged the system’s artificial nature.

Species Plantarum

• Linnaeus's personal copy is held by the Linnean Society.
• The book is not illustrated but contains dense botanical descriptions.
• Introduced the species classification system still in use today.

Practical Examples from the Collection

• Linnaeus's work included contributions from a variety of sources.
• Specimens in the collection still aid contemporary scientific inquiry.

Modern Relevance

• Linnaeus's specimens are integral to understanding global plant trade and agriculture.
• The concept of 'type specimens' emerged to stabilize plant nomenclature.

Conclusion

• Linnaeus’s work continues to impact scientific taxonomy and biodiversity studies.
• The Linnean Society encourages engagement with their collections for educational and research purposes.

Upcoming Events

• The next Linnean Lens event will feature paintings of birds on mica by Henry Nolte.