The CARDUME initiative: Integrating Brazil's scientific fish collections to promote research and biodiversity conservation

Abstract

Brazil hosts the highest fish diversity globally, underscoring the critical role of Brazilian Scientific Fish Collections (BSFCs) in biodiversity research and conservation. Despite their importance, BSFCs face persistent challenges. This study introduces the CARDUME network, the first nationwide initiative to assess BSFCs and propose strategies to enhance their role in ichthyology. Data from 74 collections across 25 Brazilian federal units reveal that most are affiliated with public universities and house 8 502 992 catalogued specimens in 906 890 lots, including over 2600 primary types. Although digitization efforts are underway in 92% of BSFCs, only 37% currently share data online. Genetic resources are severely limited, with tissue samples available for just 3% of specimens. Significant funding disparities exist, with 70% of collections receiving less than USD170 annually. Gender inequality is also notable, with more male-curated than female-curated collections. Survey responses highlighted issues such as staff shortages, inadequate facilities, and limited resources for fieldwork and collection curation. CARDUME aims to address these gaps through ­collaboration, professional training, improvement of data quality, and increase of shared data, while also advocating for recognition by Brazilian institutions, funding agencies, and the government. O resumo em português está disponível no material suplementar.