My interest as a biologist is in how structure relates to function and evolution, as well as how plants adapt to changing environments. Most of my research has been with bryophytes. Bryophytes are key in understanding the evolution of land plants and the transition to land. My research mainly focuses on bryophyte stomata, cell walls, and the distribution and ecology of bryophytes in relation to forest health and conservation.
The survey of bryophytes of El Yunque National Forest and other forests in Puerto Rico produced two rapid field guides and other resources for identification of bryophytes. This project was a partnership between the US Forest Service ITTF, El Yunque National Forest and the UPRRP Herbarium. Another project was monitoring the distribution, ecology and conservation status of Sphagnum in Puerto Rico. This project was supported by the State, Private and Tribal Forestry unit of the USDA Forest Service. Read about our rediscovery of two Sphagnum species here!
I am also involved in activities to increase science literacy at all grade levels and the general public, and promoting a better understanding and acceptance of evolution. I recently became an assistant professor in the Biology Department at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez.
Check out our Lab page: Briología Tropical.
