The
MVZ tissue collection and associated evolutionary
genetics laboratory were established in 1973 with initial funding
from the National Science Foundation. It now ranks as one of the largest
such collections, housing over 50,000 tissue specimens that include
16700 amphibians, 5600 reptiles, 9700 birds, and 19000 mammals. The
majority of samples have voucher specimens that are housed either in
the MVZ or in other institutions. Tissues are routinely preserved from
specimens accessioned by the Museum. Samples are stored either as frozen
tissue in ultralow freezers, or as non-frozen tissue in ethanol or buffer.
In many cases, specimens are represented by multiple vials with the
same or different storage methods.
Taxonomic
and geographic representation of samples primarily reflects the research
interests of MVZ faculty, research staff, and graduate students. Thus,
the mammal tissue collection is especially strong for New World rodents
and bats, the bird collection is dominated by New World passerines,
and the herp collection is strongest in New World and Old World salamanders,
lizards, and snakes. Over the past few years, expeditions throughout
the world (including such places as Afghanistan and Madagascar) have
resulted in significant acquisitions of new taxa. In addition, general
salvage of specimens from various sources has and continues to provide
a major source of new material.
Use
of the MVZ tissue collection has grown rapidly since the early-mid 1990s.
We attribute this trend both to online access to MVZ data on tissue
holdings, and to advances in molecular-based research. Requests for
tissues range from phylogeographic and systematic studies to epidemiological
applications such as the tracking of hantavirus. In addition, DNA obtained
from traditional specimen material (e.g., skin, hair, feathers, toe
pads, bone) represents an increasingly important resource for genetic
studies, especially those with a historical component such as the impact
of malaria infection on Hawaiian birds.
Query MVZ Database
Access and Loans
MVZ Guidelines for Tissues
