Art as a source of historical biodiversity data

Art has long reflected humanity's relationship with the natural world and is increasingly recognized as a valuable source of data for reconstructing past biodiversity. Here, we synthesize evidence from prehistoric cave art, historical illustrations, and literary arts to document how artworks can be used to inform our understanding of extinct species, historical population dynamics, distributional shifts, and temporal changes in species' traits. We also explore how artworks composed of biological materials such as feathers, bones, and wood can offer insights into species interactions with humans. Although artworks present unique opportunities for biodiversity research, there are limitations and challenges associated with interpreting the biodiversity data we derive from them. We advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration among art historians, archaeologists and biodiversity scientists to unlock the full potential of art in biodiversity science.