Principal Investigator: Eloisa Lasso
Coiba AIP research staff, STRI Resaerch associate

Coiba Island, one of the largest and most biodiverse islands in the Eastern Pacific and an UNESCO World Heritage Site, has long acted as a “Noah’s Ark” for the mainland’s threatened flora. Its historical isolation—as a penal colony for nearly a century—shielded large areas of its ecosystems from human disturbance, enabling the survival of endemic species and other threatened plant species that have declined elsewhere, some that are at high risk of extinction. Despite its ecological significance, little is known about the status and biology of Coiba’s endemic and endangered plant species. Key knowledge gaps include population sizes, demographic trends, spatial distribution, interactions with pollinators and dispersers, physiological traits affecting vulnerability to climate change, and genetic diversity. This lack of foundational data hampers the development of effective conservation measures. The project aims to address these gaps by conducting a detailed study of the biology and ecology of Coiba’s endemic and threatened plant species. This includes assessing their population status, understanding ecological interactions, evaluating physiological traits to predict resilience to climate change, and analyzing genetic diversity. By generating essential data, the project will lay the groundwork for evidence-based conservation strategies to protect these unique species and their habitats. Ultimately, this initiative will contribute to preserving Coiba Island’s exceptional biodiversity, ensuring that its endemic species—found nowhere else on Earth—are safeguarded for future generations. Preserving this sanctuary is critical to ensuring the survival of these plants and the ecosystems they support. 

Skills needed: Basic understanding of plant physiology and/or conservation genetics; familiarity with Excel or similar software for data management; some knowledge of statistical and quantitative methods; attention to detail is essential; willingness to camp and work outdoors in challenging conditions, including heat, sun, rain, mosquitoes, and other animals; basic molecular genetic laboratory skills (preferred but not required); ability to swim and willingness to navigate by boat, sometimes in rough seas, is preferred; willingness to work with diverse groups of people; adaptability to uncomfortable situations; and a commitment to science communication and public outreach.