Our Collections
The NHMJ is home to thousands of specimens that document the biodiversity of Jamaica. Our collections include:
Plants and Herbarium
The Natural History Museum of Jamaica houses the largest botanical collection in the English-speaking Caribbean, with over 130,000 specimens, including diverse plants like ferns, mosses, and algae. The herbarium also features seeds, woods, and fruits, documenting Jamaica’s unique plant biodiversity.
Animals
A vast array of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, documenting the richness of Jamaican wildlife. The Zoology collection holds specimens of three extinct species:
the Jamaican Petrel, Jamaican Giant Galliwasp, and Jamaican Sunset Moth. These species, lost to habitat destruction and other threats, serve as powerful symbols of the island’s extinct wildlife and emphasize the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.
Fossils and Geology:
Geological specimens, including fossil records that give insight into Jamaica’s ancient environments. These include a variety of rock types, minerals, and fossils, which help tell the story of Jamaica’s geological history and the development of its unique landscapes.
Science Library:
Our specialized Science Library houses a comprehensive collection of rare books, scientific journals, illustrations, maps and other historical documents that provide valuable insights into Jamaica’s natural history. With resources spanning botany, zoology, and geology, the library serves as a critical research hub for scholars, students, and nature enthusiasts alike. Plants like ferns, mosses, and algae. The herbarium also features seeds, woods, and fruits, documenting Jamaica’s unique plant biodiversity.