Reply to Morueta-Holme et al.: Humboldt's historical data are not messy, they just need expert examination

Abstract

Humboldt and Bonpland’s expedition is unique in the history of biological sciences, not only for the novel theoretical concepts it gave rise to, but also for the outstanding quality of the locality data recorded for thousands of plants. The inconsistencies that distort Humboldt’s Tableau Physique should not overshadow the fact that, in most cases, the exact provenance of the collected plants can be retrieved from a cross-analysis of diaries, herbaria, and botanical publications, all now accessible online. The key question of the role of Chimborazo in the definition of vegetation zones must be addressed in this context, avoiding pointless speculations on “possibly lost” specimens.