Case study 2.2
Devising options for conservation of two tree species outside of forests

This case study allows students to explore the role that trees outside of forests may play in conserving tree genetic resources.

The exercise considers the overall question of ‘Can valuable tree genetic resources persist outside of forests and if so what measures need to be taken to ensure they persist?’ The case study presents information from multidisciplinary research (ecological, genetic, socio-economic) in dry forests of Costa Rica and Honduras. It focuses on two timber species, Bombacopsis quinata, Bombacaceae, and Swietenia humilis, Meliaceae, both of local socio-economic importance, with superficially similar ecology and of conservation concern.

The exercise suits 1-3 groups of 4-5 students per group.