Brian G. Keel PhD

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Orchid Conservation Scientist, Shushan NY

Personal Statement

Originally a Forester, I am now a research botanist working on the problems of plant conservation in a changing climate. Although my specialty is orchids, plant conservation is truly a multidisciplinary field. For this work a person must consider among other things, plant and pollinator biology and ecology, latitudinal and altitudinal plant and pollinator migrations, mycorrhizal fungi (orchids are obligate for fungi), plant genetics, plant population dynamics, biogeography and soils. But just as important is a basic knowledge of social science and socio/economic principles.

Directly or indirectly today's scientists and practitioners face monumental environmental and social challenges ranging from climate change, landscape fragmentation, population increase, emergent diseases, water pollution and poverty to name a few. Many of these problems are interconnected and centered in third world countries in both the neo and old world tropics. Developed countries, such as the United States, have resources that can be directed toward many of these problems, but to utilize resources effectively, researchers must collaborate with the peoples of the developing countries. CTEC can be the bridge for this collaboration. Through CTEC I look forward to working with plants scientists, educators and local peoples for the conservation of orchids and other plants in tropical forests.

Current Project:

I am working with Dr. Beth Kaplin to develop a proposal for an orchid conservation research project in the cloud forests of Rwanda. The project will determine the distribution and abundance of orchids on an altitudinal gradient, and will explore climate change driven altitudinal migration and the implications for orchid conservation in the cloud forests.

Click here to see Brian's CV.

Last Updated: 7/24/09