Enhance the conservation status of Oaks populations in El Salvador

Enhance the conservation status of Quercus vicentensis, Quercus acutifolia, Quercus insignis and other oaks populations in El Salvador

Partner: Universidad de El Salvador
Years: 2026-2028

Oaks in El Salvador have been poorly studied, and the uses that locals make of these species are not well known. To date, 16 species have been recorded. This project aims to study the population and distribution of three oak species, as well as to produce and reforest important areas to stabilize oak communities in El Salvador.

During this project, key locations where the Quercus genus is distributed in El Salvador are visited, including sites in the northern, western, eastern, and central regions. Within these regions, five sites with significant populations of Quercus acutifolia (VU), Quercus insignis (EN), Quercus vicentensis (VU), as well as other oak populations found, are established.
The team sets up nurseries for these emblematic species in collaboration with local communities, as well as one experimental student nursery, strengthening the curriculum and research process for biology students of Universidad de El Salvador. In addition, the genome and genetic health of these species are to be analysed. Through this project, the management of specimens in the ITIC herbarium is being improved and updated.