Biodiversity Research in Panama

The video explores the health of our planet by examining the tropical rainforest in Panama, specifically on Barrow Colorado Island. Smithsonian scientists have been studying this area for over 80 years, focusing on a 50-hectare plot that contains more tree species than all of North America. Every tree over 1 cm in diameter is measured, tagged, and mapped every five years, providing valuable data to predict the future of rainforests.

What is the primary focus of the Smithsonian scientists in Panama?

• Studying marine life

• Developing new agricultural techniques

• Exploring ancient ruins

• Investigating the health of the tropical rainforest

Who is Elbridge Biff Birmingham?

• A wildlife photographer

• A local tour guide

• The acting director of STRI

• A famous botanist

Why is Barrow Colorado Island referred to as 'Red Island'?

• It was named after a person

• The island is shaped like a red circle

• Because of the red flowers

• Due to its red clay soil

What is the size of the 50-hectare plot compared to Disneyland?

• Half the size

• The same size

• Twice the size

• One and a half times the size

What is the significance of the 50-hectare plot in terms of biodiversity?

• It has fewer species than North America

• It has more species of trees than all of North America

• It is home to the largest tree in the world

• It contains only one type of tree

How often do scientists return to the 50-hectare plot to update their data?

• Every five years

• Every three years

• Every year

• Every ten years

What is the main purpose of tagging and mapping trees in the 50-hectare plot?

• To create a tourist attraction

• To build a new city

• To predict the future of rainforests

• To sell the data to logging companies

How many trees are measured and tagged in the 50-hectare plot?

• 300,000 trees

• 200,000 trees

• 100,000 trees

• 400,000 trees

What is the minimum diameter of trees that are measured in the plot?

• 5 cm

• 1 cm

• 2 cm

• 0.5 cm

What is the ultimate goal of the research conducted on Barrow Colorado Island?

• To find new species of animals

• To develop new farming techniques

• To predict the future of rainforests

• To create a new national park