S. T. Satyamurthi

S. Thomas Satyamurti (8 June 1922 – ?) was an Indian zoologist and museum director who contributed to museology and zoological research in India. He served as the Superintendent of the Government Museum, Chennai, and the Connemara Public Library from 1960 to 1978.

Early life and education Satyamurti was born on 8 June 1922 to D. P. R. Somasundaram and Mercy at Madras.

Career Satyamurti began his career as a Curator for Zoology at the Madras Government Museum (1942–1951). Curator, Natural History Section, Prince of Wales Museum, Bombay (1954)

Contributions During his tenure at Madras Government Museum, he made significant contributions to museum by organising, documenting collections, and writing guidebooks to provide detailed explanations of the exhibits. He oversaw the construction of a separate building for bronze collections in 1963, expanded the Chemical Conservation Section, and opened a new Birds Gallery in the same year. Satyamurti’s academic work focused on zoology and museology. His notable contributions include:

Bulletins and monographs on marine, land, and freshwater molluscs of South India. Illustrated guidebooks on invertebrates, fishes, reptiles, birds, and mammals of South India. Handbooks on museum techniques and museology.

Professional affiliations Satyamurti also was an active member of several prestigious organizations:

Fellow, Zoological Society of London. Vice-President, Museums Association of India, Archaeological Society of South India, and Association of Zoologists, Madras. Member, International Council of Museums and Central Museums Review Committee. Official Member, Central Advisory Board of Museums.