Tropical Forest Research in Monteverde: restoration, Climate, and Biodiversity Studies

The FCC tropical forest research in Monteverde, Costa Rica, focuses on efficient and effective restoration techniques to support landowner success, restoration of ecosystem functions, and challenges faced by threatened species.  Our work involves above- and below-ground restoration results regarding carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, and microbial community development. To increase landowner success, we study restoration methods related to seedling survival and growth: seedling characteristics at time of planting, weeding requirements, and fertilizer input. Comparisons of functional integrity of restored forests to their older natural counterparts are underway. Tree species traits are being correlated to ecosystem functions with designs to plant forward with intention.

Research on the Three-wattled bellbird was the impetus for this work. We have studied its migration, habitat use, reproductive behavior, territory holding, molt sequence, and vocalizations. There are still a host of critical questions to answer.
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We have many completed and ongoing research projects. Click the buttons below to explore.