Neotropical Magnolias of the Caribbean and Mesoamerica

Trace the evolutionary and biogeographic history of the Neotropical Magnolia species to better inform conservation actions

Partner: Ghent University
Years: 2020-2021

The goal of this project is to trace the evolutionary and biogeographic history of the Neotropical Magnolia species, and apply conservation genetic studies on a selection of these species to inform and undertake specific conservation actions led by local partners.

This project includes three specific objectives:

1) Based on phylogenetic and phylogenomic data, ascertain the evolutionary history of Neotropical Magnolias (all Caribbean species and a representative selection of Mesoamerican and South American species) to provide a taxonomic framework for conservation;

2) based on conservation genetics, unravel the genetic diversity, genetic structure and ongoing genetic processes of a selection of Caribbean and Mesoamerican species; and

3) collaborate with local partners and stakeholders in order to effectively conserve these species on the long term.