Explore science through this lecture series covering a wide range of topics from local experts in their field. 

The Cactus Conservation Crisis: How Cutting-Edge Science Helps Our Prickly Friends

This month, learn from speakers from the Desert Botanical Garden studying cacti conservation!
Cacti are beloved across the globe for their amazing variety of shapes, sizes, prickly spines, and beautiful colors. But did you know they are one of the most threatened groups of organisms on the planet? Over 30% of almost 2,000 species are threatened, particularly due to habitat destruction, climate change, and poaching. Come learn more about the biggest threats to their survival and the cutting-edge scientific tools we can use to help in their conservation. In the lab, scientists use genetic analysis to determine differences among species and potentially aid in the return of poached cacti to their original habitat. Scientists also use observations of cacti in the wild collected by enthusiasts to assess the impacts of climate change and even discover new populations!

Shannon Fehlberg is a Conservation Biologist at the Desert Botanical Garden. She came to the Garden in 2008 after studying at three different universities in Colorado for her BS, MS, and PhD, and completing a postdoc in Kansas. Shannon’s research at the Garden uses genetic approaches to understand the evolution of rare plants and their closest relatives.

Michiel Pillet is the Program Officer for the IUCN SSC Cactus and Succulent Plants Specialist Group at Desert Botanical Garden and a PhD candidate at University of Arizona. Michiel studies the impacts of climate change on cacti using computer modeling and is passionate about connecting stakeholders to tackle conservation issues such as poaching. He tries to balance out computer time with growing cacti in his conservation nursery.

This program will occur in Pulliam Auditorium, on the 1st floor of Burton Barr Central Library.

Registration is not required, but if you register you will receive a reminder email!
 

Do you require an accommodation to participate in a Phoenix Public Library program, service, or activity? Call 602-262-4636, TTY 711, or submit your request in person or through Ask Us at least 14 business days before the event. 

¿Necesita alguna adaptación para participar en algún programa, servicio o actividad de Phoenix Public Library? Llame al 602-262-4636, a la línea TTY al 711 o presente una solicitud en persona o por medio de Ask Us por lo menos 14 días hábiles antes del evento.