‘Every box has been opened’: London botanic gardens digitizes 7 million specimens

Kew Botanic Gardens completed the digitization of its 7 million specimens on June 15, 2026, a project that aims to accelerate the fight against biodiversity loss. This extensive undertaking involved scanning every preserved plant and fungal sample in the institution's vast collection, making them accessible for global research. The initiative leverages advanced imaging technologies and is expected to significantly enhance scientific understanding of plant life and its conservation needs.

The digitization effort is particularly crucial for biodiversity research, as it provides an unprecedented digital archive for scientists worldwide. Researchers can now access detailed information about specimens, including their geographic origin, collection date, and morphological characteristics, without needing to physically visit the gardens. This accessibility is vital for tracking species distribution, identifying invasive plants, and monitoring the impacts of climate change on plant ecosystems. The project's completion marks a significant milestone in botanical data management.

Artificial intelligence tools are anticipated to play a key role in analyzing this massive dataset. Kew Gardens plans to employ AI to identify patterns, classify specimens more efficiently, and potentially discover new insights into plant evolution and ecological relationships. The digital specimens will also aid in conservation efforts by providing baseline data for assessing the health of plant populations and informing strategies for protecting endangered species. The integration of AI with the digitized collection represents a forward-looking approach to botanical science.