Tools for the Conservation and Management of Entomological Collections: The Luis Jiménez de Asúa Collection at the Complutense University of Madrid
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37558/gec.v28i1.1443Keywords:
conservation, entomological collections, management, scientific heritage, systematisation, revaluationAbstract
ABSTRACT
The Luis Jiménez de Asúa Entomological Collection, housed at the Complutense University of Madrid, is in a fragile condition due to historical and environmental factors, as well as inappropriate interventions. Notable damage includes corrosion, loss of information and deterioration caused by UV light and the use of unsuitable materials. Nevertheless, thanks to a systematic protocol of assessment, digitisation, and organisation, key risks have been mitigated. Conservation rubrics, provisional databases, and environmental monitoring have been implemented. As an area for improvement, emphasis is placed on recognising the social, scientific, and cultural value of the collection, understood as heritage that bridges historical knowledge with current research.
This case demonstrates that, with a multidisciplinary approach and limited resources, it is possible to recover and manage a historical collection. Partial musealisation and ongoing training would complete a sustainable strategy aimed at conservation and scientific and educational utilisation.
Key words: conservation, entomological collections, management, scientific heritage, systematisation, revaluation
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References
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