Nature at risk: symbol and memorial

Biodiversity is also under threat on the African continent. Here, as elsewhere, the management of nature is subject to conflicting interests. Species-rich habitats are destroyed as a result of the exploitation of land and mineral resources, and threatened species are decimated by hunting and poaching.

This is symbolised by the fate of the northern white rhinoceros. The species has been eradicated, with the last male dying in 2018. It has been digitally brought back to life in a video installation, and in Diorama no. 19 the animals are “immortalised” by a plaster-and-hide illusion. Both of these works remind us that, worldwide, countless of animal and plant species are disappearing every day — irretrievably and irreplaceably.

Welcome to the eGuide of the NMBE

With the eGuide, you can virtually explore exhibitions in your preferred language and, in addition to the exhibition texts, discover additional information and stories about various objects in the museum.