Empowering Citizen Scientists Through Virtual Marine Heritage with Epoxonomy©

Melissa   Beata Martin; Norhayati Ab Manaf; Nurul Aisyah Awanis  A Rahim

doi:10.37231/jmtp.2024.5.1.387

Melissa Beata Martin Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu
Norhayati Ab Manaf INSTITUTE OF TROPICAL BIODIVERSITY AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA TERENGGANU
Nurul Aisyah Awanis A Rahim Faculty of Business and Management, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37231/jmtp.2024.5.1.387

Keywords: Taxonomy; EpoXonomy©; Conversation; Biological Collections; Educational Outreach; Youth Empowerment

Abstract

Taxonomy is often undervalued, perceived merely as a descriptive science focused on identification, with limited career prospects. However, taxonomy plays a crucial role in conservation biology and informs policy decisions, adhering to ethical standards. This is particularly significant for Malaysia, a central biodiversity hotspot, where public awareness of marine biodiversity's value is lacking. Addressing this challenge involves educating the public on the importance of taxonomy and marine biodiversity for the sustainable management of natural heritage resources through citizen science. This paper introduces EpoXonomy©, a novel initiative designed to enhance engagement between marine experts, youth, and the public, emphasizing the significance of biological collections from the South China Sea Repository and Reference Center. EpoXonomy© utilizes a virtual exhibition format to achieve its goals, structured around three core learning outcomes (CLOs). These CLOs aim to bridge marine taxonomic discoveries, educational awareness, and online exhibitions through a collaborative effort involving trained academicians, curators, industrial experts, and undergraduate students. The project's primary objective is to inspire a younger generation to value their natural heritage by engaging trained taxonomists and curators and fostering a citizen science community. This community is nurtured through the training and empowerment of undergraduate students in marine biology. Additionally, EpoXonomy© seeks to provide avenues for public participation and stimulate early interest in scientific research, facilitating knowledge transfer and raising awareness in alignment with the themes and objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water). In summary, EpoXonomy© represents a comprehensive approach to marine heritage awareness, knowledge dissemination, and readiness among citizen scientists, ultimately contributing to the long-term sustainability of marine biodiversity through informed public engagement and education.

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