Recently, researchers from the University of Michigan’s Herbarium traveled to Panama to investigate why one of the rainforest’s most intriguing trees is found in both Latin American and Africa.

Unlike most tropical trees, the locations of Symphonia globulifera presents a rare geographic pattern that raises some fascinating evolutionary and ecological questions.

The project supported EEB Frontiers master’s student Renee Rosenkilde, whose research focuses on the unusual distribution and chemistry of the species.

“Field work is such an important part of what we do as scientists,” said Renee. “When you're able to immerse yourself in the environment you study, it raises questions you would never encounter in the lab, and some of the most valuable insights come from talking to people who haven’t just studied these systems, but who have lived in them.”

Working on Barro Colorado Island (BCI) in Panama, Renee and Chris Dick, ProfessorCurator, U-M Herbarium, collected herbarium specimens and leaf samples from wild populations of the tree while staying at the BCI field station.

“By comparing leaf chemistry across populations, and eventually across continents, we hope to uncover how Symphonia globulifera has adapted to different rainforest ecosystems around the world,” said Chris. “This work could provide new insights into how plants defend themselves, evolutionary history, and the ecological forces shaping tropical biodiversity.”

Adds Renee, “As a Frontiers student, and with this being my first experience doing tropical fieldwork, it was hard to believe that being a scientist is actually my job until I saw my study system in person. I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to study the tropics, and after so much reading about these ecosystems and planning my work, finally seeing it all in person was both surreal and grounding.”

Chris Dick. Photo credit: Chris Dick

 

The specimens Renee helped collect will contribute to future research and documentation, while the leaf samples will help scientists better understand how the species defends itself in different environments. The samples will be analyzed through the U-M Natural Products Discovery Core, where researchers will identify and characterize the chemical compounds found within the leaves. Many of these chemicals play important roles in protecting plants from insects and fungal pathogens.

Renee says, “Barro Colorado Island is an incredible place, and the chance to meet so many young scientists and local researchers has been truly inspiring.” She shares this advice for other students considering field work: “I was nervous about so many things on this trip, but I'm incredibly grateful that I did apply for travel grants and take the chance. Apply for as many U-M grants as possible, make a thorough plan with your advisor, and trust that things will work out.”

Renee’s experience highlights the enduring importance of fieldwork and herbarium collections in modern scientific research. From remote rainforest islands to advanced chemical analysis, specimens gathered in the field continue to uncover discoveries and new findings about plant behavior and life on earth.

Symphonia globulifera. Photo credit: Renee Rosenkilde