Language: English
From the preface:
"This Souvenir is released in commemoration of the centenary celebration of the Fischer Herbarium (Acronym: FRC), IFGTB, Coimbatore on 22 May 2011, coinciding with the international Day for Biological Diversity 2011. We feel that it is a proud moment for taxonomists in IFGTB, both retired and serving, whose untiring efforts and commitment have enhanced the reputation of the Fischer Herbarium. In the era of conservation, the importance of Herbaria in biodiversity conservation and sustainable utilization of bioresources has been better understood than ever before. Without the involvement of taxonomists and assistance of Herbaria, it is very difficult to prioritise the important areas for biodiversity conservation. Biological diversity assessment, monitoring, bio-prospecting, access on bio-resources, biotechnology etc. are not possible without taxonomic expertise and scientific facilities such as Herbaria. The Convention on Biological Diversity has started a Global Taxonomic Initiative and brought out a Guide to assist the member countries to overcome the taxonomical impediments, encountered by them in the biodiversity related field operations.
The Fischer Herbarium is one of the oldest Herbaria in the country and most of the taxa of important families reported in Southern India have been collected and preserved in the Herbarium. It is serving the taxonomic needs of the whole of India, particularly of the Southern States. A total of 3 312 species are housed in the Herbarium.
On this happy occasion of the 100th year celebration, we are gratefully remembering the contributions made by-the taxonomists, renowned botanists and other staff members who have helped in improvement and growth of the Herbarium in its march towards excellence. Above all we fondly remember the dedicated forest officer cum field taxonomist, Mr. C.E.C.Fischer, whose humble efforts have blossomed into a Herbarium of international repute."