Drylands: Tropical America
Introduction
The biodiversity of the Neotropics (Tropical America) is of immense significance in global terms. The estimated 80-90,000 species of flowering plants in this region, for example, represent some 30% of the world’s known genera and species. These occur in a very diverse range of habitats, from deserts and savannas to tropical forests. Kew’s work in the Neotropics has for the last five years been primarily focused on dry and semi-arid ecosystems. These comparatively under-researched biomes are in many cases exposed to severe degradation or conversion to agricultural land, and are currently the subject of high conservation concern.
Kew’s primary objectives in Tropical America Drylands are: 1) to increase access to our collections and data for Tropical American and international researchers; 2) to develop knowledge of taxonomy, phylogeny and conservation status of specific plant families in the region; 3) to make significant contributions to in situ and ex situ conservation and sustainable use of threatened biomes and species through applied, targeted research and constructive engagement with landowners and other stakeholders; and 4) to disseminate information generated by these activities to a range of audiences in accessible formats. Our work is achieved through a multi-disciplinary, collaborative approach, drawing on the combined expertise and experience of a cross-departmental team (including the Herbarium, Jodrell Laboratory, Seed Conservation and Horticulture & Public Education Departments) and our in-country partners, building on the strengths of our collections and curatorial resources.