In an effort to protect Colombia’s biological diversity, ProAves and Fondation Franklinia are making progress in the identification, monitoring, and restoration of 16 magnolia species across 13 of our Natural Reserves. This work not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also strengthens conservation strategies for these unique and threatened trees.
Magnolias belong to the Magnoliaceae family, a primitive group of trees and shrubs with over 350 species distributed across Asia and the Americas. Colombia is home to 42 recorded species, making it the most magnolia-diverse country in the Neotropics. Of these, 36 species are endemic and urgently require protection measures.
Monitoring Progress and Key Findings
To date, our team of rangers and botanists has identified different magnolia species in reserves located in the Antioquia-Chocó and Santander-Boyacá regions.
In the ProAves Reserves Arrierito Antioqueño, Las Tángaras, Colibrí del Sol, and Loro Orejiamarillo, 165 magnolia trees have been documented, including new records expanding the known distribution of species such as M. coronata, M. chocoensis, M. espinalii, and M. lenticellata. Additionally, it has been confirmed that these areas host the largest recorded populations of M. coronata and M. urraoensis, a valuable contribution to their conservation.
In the El Paujil and Pauxi Pauxi reserves, magnolias of great ecological importance have also been identified. In El Paujil, six individuals of M. cespedesii were recorded, some in a reproductive state, along with other high-value species such as Dacryodes colombiana (EN) and Brownea santanderensis (CR). Meanwhile, in Pauxi Pauxi, one individual of M. resupinatifolia was recorded, alongside several threatened species, highlighting the importance of preserving these habitats.
Training and Restoration: Planting Hope
As part of this project, rangers have received training in species identification, seed management, and nursery practices, achieving:
- Collection of 107 fruits containing 251 seeds
- Monitoring of 20 developing fruits
- Rescue of 13 seedlings, with 8 actively growing
- Germination of 214 individuals of M. urraoensis, 16 of M. lenticellata, and 19 of M. espinalii
In Pauxi Pauxi, pilot plantations with endangered species have been carried out, marking an initial step in restoring these ecosystems.
Additionally, progress is being made in the development of six nurseries, managed by Women for Conservation, a key partner organization, to facilitate magnolia reproduction.
Seeds of Hope for Magnolia Conservation
Magnolias in the ProAves Reserves are currently in a reproductive phase, with maturing fruits requiring constant monitoring to ensure the production of viable seeds and their natural regeneration. These efforts reflect ProAves’ commitment to conserving endangered species and protecting the forests that sustain wildlife.
With each rescued seed, each monitored tree, and each trained ranger, we continue to plant hope for magnolias and Colombia’s biodiversity.
Thanks to the support of:
