Assessing Collection Resources and Preservation Issues in Argentinean Museums: A Model Survey and Evaluation of New World Primate Collections

Abstract

An assessment of the status of specimens of New World primates (Infraorder Platyrrhini) was made at four Argentinean museums, with an emphasis at the “Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales” (MACN) and the “Museo de La Plata” (MLP). This involved examination and evaluation of skins and skulls to determine general condition and preservation needs. The goals were to: a) collect information on species represented, numbers of individuals, and geographic origin of specimens, and b) assess the condition of specimens and value of collection for multiple research uses, and for educational purposes in general. We present several recommendations to ensure the preservation and optimal use of Argentinean collections in the future. This study is presented as a model for more extensive surveys of museum specimens in Argentina and other parts of the world.