Why is NASA studying tropical ecosystems?
A NASA plane came to Panama to acquire aerial images to inform scientists about the diversity of tropical ecosystems. At the same time, researchers from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama collected similar data from the ground. The goal: to create an algorithm to better understand tropical ecosystems using satellite remote sensing in the future.
Birds by Day, Bats by Night: Long-Term Census of Bats and Birds in Panama
Research teams studying bats and birds gather in Panama’s Soberanía National Park to celebrate the launch of a long-term census of bats designed to complement the bird census which will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year.
STRI special events, March 2025
2024 Secretary's Research Awards, Women and Girls in Science Day Celebration, LSP fellows’ workshop and more.
Archaeologists study the connections between the deceased buried at Cerro Juan Díaz, Panama
Individuals recovered at the archaeological site of Cerro Juan Díaz shed more light on how the local communities buried and honored their dead.
Tracking blue whales through oceanic corridors.
Blue whales, the largest animals on Earth, travel hidden ocean highways.
Bezos Earth Fund Gives $2 Million Grant To Launch Groundbreaking Amphibian Conservation Project Across Latin America
A grant from the Bezos Earth Fund to help save 25 frog species through conservation, rewilding, and disease prevention efforts.
A course to learn about the biodiversity of our forests
Through a course in dendrology, the study of the taxonomy of woody plants in the absence of flowers or fruits, two experts in forest diversity seek to leave a legacy of knowledge for future generations.
Potential caterpillar mimicry in White-necked Jacobin chicks discovered in Panama.
A baby hummingbird hatches. But it has fluffy feathers on its back, looking just like a dangerous caterpillar. Could this be something unusual among hummingbirds?
Where decay breathes life
From sonic tomographies to global biodiversity negotiations, this journey through research, resilience, and connection reveals how even the smallest organisms can shape entire ecosystems and inspire lasting change.
The first volumes of the BCI 100 celebration series are now available online
To celebrate a century of scientific research in the Barro Colorado Nature Monument, a series of volumes will provide a record of the major contributions to plant and ecosystem science, animal science, and the physical environment for future generations of researchers.
