15 pages ; 28 cm

Natural history specimens and their associated data are a valuable resource to the scientific and educational communities, with each specimen representing a unique sample from a specific locality and a specific point in time. Given this intrinsic value to research and education, a few studies have attempted to assign a monetary value or worth to specimens and their associated data. For example, a recent study determined the costs associated with collecting and preparing a mammal voucher specimen in the field; however, little information is available for costs associated with incorporating these specimens and their data into a natural history collection and providing access to these data by the scientific community and society. Herein, we review the costs required for curating, installing, documenting, databasing, and caring for a representative sample of 3,356 mammal voucher specimens, associated genetic resources, and accompanying data in the Natural Science Research Laboratory, Museum of Texas Tech University. The average cost for curation, installation, documentation, and databasing is conservatively estimated to be $17.51 per specimen, with additional costs of $0.25 per year per specimen for long-term care

"Texas Tech University, Natural Science Research Laboratory"--Cover

"17 April 2014"--Cover

Includes bibliographical references (page 10)

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