Orchid Recovery: Ecuador

Despite being one of the smallest countries in South America, Ecuador harbors the richest assemblage of naturally occurring orchids with more than 4,000 species (compare that to <300 species in the United States and Canada combined!). In 2014, we began a research collaboration with the University of Cuenca in Ecuador aimed at conserving orchids in the Andean cloud forests. Illinois College students now work in two research labs in Cuenca where they learn techniques for growing Andean orchids from seed with fungi. By doing so, students gain a greater appreciation for tropical orchid diversity as well as the culture associated with this beautiful South American country.

Students who aspire to conduct research in Ecuador, especially those who speak some level of Spanish, are encouraged to apply. For more information, please contact Dr. Zettler (lwzettle@ic.edu) or Dr. Gardner (sgardner@ic.edu).