Botanical bridges 2026: a milestone for Dominican science

The National Botanical Garden (JBN) hosts the congress from April 20 to 24 Botanical Bridges 2026. Specialists from more than 31 countries are expected. The event’s steering committee answers some questions for Listín Diario about one of the most anticipated scientific events of the year.

LD. What does it mean for Dominican science to become the global focus of Botany these days?

Becoming the venue for the Botanical Bridges 2026 Congress represents a milestone for Dominican science, as it positions the country as a regional benchmark in botanical research and biodiversity conservation. This event not only makes national scientific work visible, but also encourages the exchange of knowledge, strengthens international research networks and promotes scientific development in key areas such as plant taxonomy, ecology and conservation.

LD. More or less how many exhibition activities will be carried out?

During the congress, more than 125 scientific works will be developed, which includes 62 oral presentations, 49 posters, a keynote conference, a symposium, a panel and eight theoretical-practical workshops. A dynamic agenda is projected, which guarantees a wide diversity of topics and approaches.

LD. Who participates in the congress?

The conference brings together a diverse community of botany professionals and enthusiasts, including botanists and taxonomists; environmental researchers and scientists; biologists and ecologists, students university and postgraduate students, herbaria and botanical garden technicians, environmental managers and conservationists.

This multidisciplinary nature allows for a comprehensive approach to the study and conservation of plants.

LD. How many people do you hope to gather? Is it open to the public?

The congress has more than 200 people registered, including national and international attendees. The conference maintains an academic focus, but is open to the interested public, especially students, professionals and people linked to the environmental area, upon registration.

LD. All the topics included in the program are important, but which ones deserve special attention?

Although all topics are relevant, they stand out especially: species delimitation and integrative taxonomy, conservation of Caribbean flora, climate change and its impact on ecosystems, ecological restoration, sustainable use of plant resources, biodiversity and endemism on islands…

These issues are key to facing current environmental challenges.