In August, three Desert Botanical Garden scientists embarked on a thrilling two-week expedition to Peru generously supported by longtime donors Bert and Betty Feingold.
The trip was meticulously planned by Garden Living Collections Curator and Research Botanist Raul Puente-Martinez. During their visit, researchers collected herbarium specimens to add to the Garden’s collection. Their work also helped advance research of desert plants, contribute to global research and fortify collaborations with Peruvian botanists.
The team included Herbarium Curator and Research Botanist Andrew Salywon and Cactus Plant Form Specialist Noemi Hernandez, as well as former Garden researcher Lucas Majure, who is now at the University of Florida.
Photos courtesy of Desert Botanical Garden Research, Conservation and Collections staff.
For 85 years, botanical explorations have been at the heart of the Garden’s mission. From the first executive director sailing the coasts of Baja California, Mexico, to our countless research trips across several continents over the years, the Garden prides itself in the research and conservation projects that help researchers delve into the diverse desert flora from across the world, as well as the partnerships it has formed along the way.
Below are some of the highlights from the Research, Conservation and Collections team’s recent visit to Peru.
Key Highlights from the Expedition
- Successful Collections: The team successfully collected herbarium vouchers and seeds from Agave cordillerensis, Furcraea antillarum and Furcraea occidentalis. They also gathered seeds from more than 15 different species, including cactus like Armatocereus laetus, Austrocylindropuntia subulata and Melocactus peruvianus. These additions will enhance the Garden’s living collections and provide valuable genetic and morphological diversity.
- Knowledge Sharing: Raul and Andrew had the opportunity to present their research at the Museo de Historia Natural in Lima, Peru, fostering knowledge exchange with local experts. They also renewed the Garden’s longstanding collaboration with the botanical garden at Parque de las Leyendas, a partnership initiated 30 years ago by Garden botanists.
- Conservation Insights: The team observed firsthand the conservation challenges facing Peru’s unique plant species and their habitats. This on-the-ground experience is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. The Garden is the host institution for the Cactus and Succulent Plants Specialist Group (CSSG) for the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and is committed to working with partners to conserve plants worldwide.
- Local Partnerships: Forming relationships with Peruvian botanists has been a cornerstone of this expedition. Collaborations like these are vital for exchanging plant knowledge and techniques, and for navigating the legalities of specimen collection.
- Field Observations: Seeing species in their natural habitats provided invaluable insights into their growth requirements, such as soil type, sun exposure and altitude. These observations will guide how Garden researchers cultivate and care for these plants at the Garden.
Photos courtesy of Desert Botanical Garden Research, Conservation and Collections staff.
The planning for this expedition has been years in the making, and the team’s current achievements are a testament to their dedication and expertise. We look forward to integrating these new discoveries into our collections and continuing our mission to support global botanical research. Stay tuned for more updates as we process and share the fruits of this exciting journey!
