Virtual Program
From 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of grasses with Dr. Maria (Bat) S. Vorontsova from Kew Gardens, focusing on their incredible diversity in tropical Africa, especially the lesser-known species and their role in shaping tropical grasslands and savannas. A key project involves creating a detailed guide to the grass family in Madagascar, combining ecology, plant history, and the practical uses of grasses. The talk will also touch on the development of plant classification systems and the importance of naming plants correctly.
Dr. Maria (Bat) S. Vorontsova specializes in grasses, with a focus on tropical African diversity, poorly known lineages, and the evolution of grasslands and savannas. Her main research is a taxonomic treatment of Poaceae for the Flora of Madagascar, blending ecological, phylogenetic, and ethnobotanical studies. She also explores plant classifications and nomenclature and manages GrassBase, a global resource compiling taxonomic knowledge on grasses.