The Darwinism: Evolution by Natural Selection exhibition
This year commemorates the 200th anniversary of the birth
of Charles Darwin and the 150th anniversary of the publication
of The Origin of Species. The Faculty of Sciences of the University
of Zaragoza has joined in with this year's celebrations by organising
a thematic exhibition within the context of INSTRUMENTA,
Darwinism: Evolution by Natural Selection.
This exhibition is not only a homage to Darwin and his work, but to life itself, as expressed in innumerable species - some living some extinct - whose origin has been the subject of many theories, studies, and even disputes.
The aim of the exhibition is primarily to inform and raise awareness. The Natural History collections on display are complimented by attractive information panels about Darwin's life, his voyage on the Beagle, the Theory of Evolution, and the diversity and origins of different species. The intention is to give the visitor an attractive and enjoyable insight into the life and work of both the scientist and biodiversity, by creating a visually informative tour.
Specimens on display include fossils, preserved or mounted animals and plants, arranged and described in 10 display cabinets. Some examples are dedicated to Darwin's voyage, others demonstrate evolution by natural selection and another group of specimens are representative of different biological phyla and classes. Commemorative objects connected to Darwin's life as a naturalist are also displayed.
The exhibition will remain open until the end of the year, the exhibits coming from the Museum of Biology of the Faculty of Sciences, the Museum of Palaeontology of the University of Zaragoza with some additional specimens from private collections.
News coverage
The Darwinism: Evolution by Natural Selection exhibition has been reported in various media:
- The news review of the University of Zaragoza for 23rd March 2009 ("Activities of the Centre" category) includes an article from the newspaper El Periódico.
- The news review of the University of Zaragoza for 24th March 2009 ("Awards" category) includes an article from the newspaper El Heraldo de Aragón.
- The web page of Aragón Investiga also published the event in its diary.