Reference collection

Copies of completed diploma theses, dissertations, expeditions and research projects offer scientists the possibility to view and compare documentary evidence from previous projects and use it for other scientific purposes.

The palaeontological section of the reference collection is centred on the original documents. The specimens depicted in publications are especially valuable as clear reference documents if species or other taxa were described for the first time scientifically in the publication. In this instance, they are referred to a type specimens, which act as the definitive reference in all issues regarding the identity of plants and animals. Such specimens are consulted by scientists from all over the world if similar species are found and their identity needs to be determined for certain.