Within the framework of the institutional project "Assessment of the Conservation Status of PASNAP Emblematic Areas," the National Institute of Biodiversity (INABIO) convened expert researchers for a technical review of biological monitoring methodologies in Ecuador's coastal and marine protected areas.
ESPOL, through its researchers, contributed its expertise to this knowledge transfer session. A key highlight was the participation of Dr. Paolo Piedrahita, a research professor from the Life Sciences Faculty (LFS) and an Associate Researcher at INABIO, who provided significant insights for data collection on key species.
The meeting facilitated the documentation and discussion of cost-effective methodologies for monitoring critical taxonomic groups, such as:
Primates.
Small and medium-sized mammals.
Sea turtles.
During the session, experts analyzed the viability of current techniques and gathered suggestions for methodological adjustments to ensure a more precise follow-up on the conservation status of our biodiversity. This collaboration between academia and INABIO ensures that management decisions in the country's protected areas are backed by the highest scientific rigor.