Internet botanical specimen data server

The E-mail data server is a database system that delivers specimen data over the Internet within electronic mail. Using electronic mail as a vehicle for delivering queries and for returning data permits unlimited access to remote databases for any scientist with network mail service. This "open-access" approach contrasts with database systems which require pre-arranged accounts and passwords for access, and takes advantage of existing research data networks. Three specimen databases are available for queries: (1) type specimens of the Lamiaceae (and soon other families) in the Harvard University herbaria, (2) the complete catalog of Michigan State University's Kellogg Biological Station herbarium, and (3) the Flora of Mt. Kinabalu (Borneo) specimen database.