RESEARCHES | akkaseeds

Investigaciones:

Actualmente en AKKA SEEDS se está realizando la investigación Rediscovering Eugenia fajardensis: Building a research infrastructure for a rare and possibly endangered species. Liderada por nuestra mentora, Elvia Meléndez Ackerman, está investigación a ganado la beca Ecology Education Career Track Award (de ESA SEEDS) para representar la investigación en California, Estados Unidos.

Rediscovering Eugenia fajardensis: Building a research infrastructure for a rare and possibly endangered species.

Proposal Abstract:

Biodiversity is being lost at unprecedented rates requiring more than ever the training of professionals in endangered species research. The goal of this project is to generate baseline data on a recently re-discovered tree species endemic to the northeastern region of Puerto Rico and considered to be endangered. Data on the ecology of this species and its habitat requirements is nil. This proposal will engage undergraduate students from the AKKA SEEDS chapter in project were they will contribute ecological knowledge of this species that will be used by local authorities in the development of conservation and management plans. At the same time, hands-on research and planned capacity building activities will introduce Hispanic undergraduate students to a variety of aspects related to endangered species research. While activities target AKKA SEEDS members (currently 15 members) they are also a great mechanism for additional student recruitment. Through know contacts, the participation of high school students will also be encouraged. Frequent meetings will ensure an effective adaptive management of this project.