December is a particular month, full of joy and reflection on what has been accomplished during the year. The fruits and flowers stand out, with their colors and flavors making this season even more special. One of the signs that the end of the year has arrived in Guatemala is to look around and find…
Cobán Climbing Salamander: An Example of How Genetic Differentiation Affect a Species’ Populations
In recent years, biologists have developed a deeper understanding and concern about how the relationship between genetic diversity can influence the population structure of a species. They have understood how geographic and ecological variations often divide species into subspecies or other distinct populations of individuals that are closely related to each other and not to…
“Mano de Piedra” Snake Venom: A Fascinating Journey through Its Toxicity and Changes Throughout Its Life
Guatemala and the entire Mesoamerican region are sites teeming with a rich diversity of fauna and flora. Numerous studies related to these subjects have been conducted in these areas by outstanding Guatemalan scientists. These investigations contribute significantly, not only to science but also to expanding our understanding of the fascinating species surrounding us in Mesoamerica.…
Global Conservation: Celebrating World Ecology and Ecologist Day
On November 1st, we celebrate the 157th anniversary of the World Ecology and Ecologist Day. This day is meant to remind people of the significance of knowing and valuing the relationships that exist between living beings and their environment and to raise awareness among our society about the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with…
Mammals: Beautiful curiosities
Everyone knows that us humans, along with our furry family members, our cats and dogs, are all classified as mammals. But, did you know that mammals can be that and so much more? Tiny bumblebee bats can weigh less than two grams, while a fellow mammal, a majestic blue whale, can weigh more than 180…
NATIONAL PARKS: A treasure for conservation
International Day of National Parks August 24th, 2023 Parque Nacional Río Dulce. Haniel López, 2021. Every year we celebrate the International Day of National Parks on August 24th. This day raises awareness for global efforts towards conservation. National parks are decreed for many reasons such as historical, aesthetic, scientific value, cultural value, for recreational purposes,…
Trees to admire today, the international day for the preservation of tropical forests
Tropical forests are all forests which are located in the tropics, or put in other words, closer to the equator line. They are generally characterized by higher temperatures, bigger amounts of rainfall, and particularly, broader biodiversity indexes. Taking into account that tropical forests are those that grow in the tropics, they can be classified according…
The Quetzal bird is great national symbol for Guatemala; Let’s show the world that frangipani, flor de maya, is also native to Guatemala
Frangipani flowers are the most famous flower of Hawaii (in lei decorations as fragrant necklaces for visitors). I have seen frangipani flowers in gardens and parks in Singapore, Dubai, China and around the world. But Plumeria rubra is native to Guatemala and adjacent countries. In two excellent books on PLUMERIA, by capable experienced gardeners and…
WETLANDS – A Hidden Biodiversity Treasure International Day for Biological Diversity
Up to 40% of Earth’s biodiversity lives, breeds or depends on Wetland Ecosystems. However, 25% of wetland biodiversity is in risk of extinction. Biological diversity is essential to the equilibrium of life on Earth. With the ongoing destruction of several ecosystems disturbing this beautiful balance, the United Nations proclaimed May 22nd as the International Day…
Mangroves of Rio San Pedro, amusing cases of ecology and evolutionary history
In March of 2023 our expedition team found and documented mangrove trees along Rio San Pedro. Since then, we have learned a lot about these remarkable trees. Mangroves have bright green leaves. Photo by: David Arrivillaga. Rio San Pedro, March, 2023. Our team first learned about these mangrove remnants primarily through a research publication by…