GTI calls - Grants obtained by individuals or institutions from partner countries

AGWANDA Bernard, Kenya

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

The collections of the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) are rich in mammal specimens; about half of which are rodents, bats and shrews. Unfortunately these are the least known and hence poorly labelled, curated and identified specimens.

This project involved a taxonomic training of one research staff of the NMK, who in turn trained colleagues at home to further expand the know-how.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels

Read Mr Agwanda's GTI reports to find out more about his received training

AIT BOUGHROUS Ali, Morocco

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

Le présent projet se propose de former un spécialiste à la taxinomie et la systématique des oligochètes dulçaquicoles du Maroc, avec un accent particulier sur les oligochètes des eaux souterraines. Il s’intègre dans un cadre de recherches plus vaste qui vise, par un inventaire exhaustif de la biodiversité des eaux souterraines du Maroc et la caractérisation des paramètres physico-chimiques du milieu, à mettre en évidence les relations entre la richesse spécifique des eaux souterraines et la qualité de celles-ci.

La formation de ce spécialiste permettra à l’équipe marocaine d’intégrer les oligochètes dans leurs projets de recherche, groupe traditionnellement négligé jusqu’à présent, par manque de connaissances.Placé dans le contexte du développement durable et de la conservation de la biodiversité, ce projet permettra, à moyen terme:

de fournir une liste exhaustive des espèces des oligochètes du Maroc ;
d’identifier les constituants importants de cette faune, en terme de conservation (espèces reliques, endémiques et/ou stygobies) ;
d’identifier les sites souterrains prioritaires en terme de protection de la biodiversité existante et de surveillance;
de former du personnel technique local aux techniques de préparation et d’identification de routine des oligochètes dans le cadre de projets de surveillance de sites prioritaires.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

M. A. BOUGHROUS receives taxonomic training from RBINS taxonomist Dr P. MARTIN.

Gained personal capacity: Thanks to the taxonomic training received in Brussels, M. BOUGHROUS is now able to identify freshwater oligochaete. He used this gained knowledge to draw up a checklist of the groundwater oligochaetes of Morocco.

In 2007, he obtained his PhD entitled 'Biodiversité, écologie et qualité des eaux souterraines dans deux régions arides du Maroc : le Tafilalet et la région de Marrakech'.

In 2011, his built up capacity allowed him to get a position at the 'Ecole nationale des sciences appliquées of Al Hoceima where he has the responsibility over a module on hydrobiology thaught to ir-students, specialized in environmental ingeneering.

Gained institutional capacity: The university Cadi Ayyad in Marrakech has been equiped with a high quality optical microscope (with drawing tube) and has alsor received small equipment for sampling and collection management.

Groundwater oligchaetes were inventoried during several field trips.

Selected output:

Chapters in books:

MESSOULI, M.; MESSANA, G.; YACOUBI-KHEBIZA, M.; El ALAMI EL FILALI ET, A.; AIT BOUGHROUS, A. & BOULANOUAR, M. 2007. The Evolution of Groundwater Exploration Methods in the Moroccan Oases through the History, and Managing Ecological risk of their Present Pollution. 22p. In "Climatic Changes and Water Resources in the Middle East and in North Africa". Eds Springer Publishing Company. pp 267- 288.
Ali AIT BOUGHROUS, Mohammed YACOUBI-KHEBIZA, Patrick MARTIN, Abdelkrim BENSALEM, Mohamed MESSOULI (in press). Menaces climatiques sur les écosystèmes aquatiques souterrains de la réserve de biosphère des oasis du Sud marocain. Association Française pour L’avancement des Sciences.

PhD Thesis

BOUGHROUS AIT, A. 2007. Biodiversité, écologie et qualité des eaux souterraines dans deuxrégions arides du Maroc: le Tafilalet et la région de Marrakech. PhD Thesis, Université Cadi Ayyad, Marrakech, 236 pp.

Scientific papers.

M. EL ADNANI, A. AIT BOUGHROUS, A., NEJMEDDINE, M. YACOUBI KHEBIZA ET A. EL GHARMALI 2007. Impact of the mining wastes on the physicochemical characteristics of water and the structure of the zooncenoses of the wells in the area of Marrakesh, Morocco. Environmental Technology, Vol. 28. pp 71-82.
A. AIT BOUGHROUS, M. BOULANOUAR, M. YACOUBI ET N. COINEAU 2007. The first Microcharon (Crustacea Isopoda, Microparasellidae) from the Moroccan North Saharan Platform. Palaeobiogeography and origin. Contributions to Zoology, 76 (1) 21-34.
A. AIT BOUGHROUS, M. YACOUBI-KHEBIZA, M. BOULANOUAR, C. BOUTIN ET G. MESSANA 2007. Qualité des eaux souterraines dans deux régions arides du Maroc: impact des pollutions sur la biodiversité et implications paléogéographiques. Environmental Technology, Vol. 28. pp 1299-1315.
BOUKHOUBZA F., AIT BOUGHROUS A., YACOUBI-KHEBIZA M., JAIL A., HASSANI L., LOUKILI-IDRISSI L. ET NEJMEDDINE A. 2008. Impact du stockage des effluents d’huileries (margines) sur la qualité physico-chimique et biologique des eaux souterraines au sud de Marrakech (Maroc). Environmental Technology, Vol. 29. pp 959-974).
MERZOUG D., KHIARI A., AIT BOUGHROUS A. et BOUTIN C. (in press) premières données sur les communautés animales, stygobies et épigées de la région d’Ain Diss (Oum-el-Bouaghi, Algerie), et leur utilisation possible comme marqueurs de la qualité de l’eau). Ecologie appliquée

Conferences:

M. YACOUBI-KHEBIZA, ALI AIT BOUGHROUS et P. MARTIN 2007. Etat des connaissances sur la biodiversité des oligochètes aquatiques souterrains dans les eaux souterraines du Maroc. The Biodiversity of Morocco: Current knowledge and future perspectives, 26 and 27 October 2007, Titouan, Maroc.
A. AIT BOUGHROUS, M. YACOUBI-KHEBIZA, P. MARTIN et M. MESSOULI 2008. Vulnérabilité et impact des changements globaux sur les écosystèmes aquatiques souterrains de la réserve de biosphère des oasis du Sud marocain. 120e congrès de l’Association française pour l’avancement des sciences (AFAS) ‘Changement Climatique Et Biodiversité’. 22-23 mai 2008, Paris, France.
MOHAMMED MESSOULI, G. MESSANA, M. YACOUBI-KHEBIZA, A. EL ALAMI EL FILALI, A. AIT BOUGHROUS et M. BOULANOUAR 2008. Groundwater-surface water interaction as a component of the ecohydrology of arid regions. International conference : Groundwater & Climate in Africa, 24 to 28 June 2008, Kampala, Uganda.
P. MARTIN, A. AIT BOUGHROUS, M. MESSOULI, Y. SAMYN & M. YACOUBI-KHEBIZA 2008. Groudwater invertebrates as canaries in the coal mine for climate change. November, 26-27, 2008, Marrakesh, Morocco.
M. YACOUBI-KHEBIZA, R. MEKKAOUI, A. AIT BOUGHROUS & M. MESSOULI 2008. Adaptation des populations rurales aux changements climatiques dans la réserve de biosphère des oasis du sud du Maroc : Importance de la sensibilisation par l’éducation et par la formation participative. November, 26-27, 2008, Marrakesh, Morocco.
BOUGHROUS, A.A., YACOUBI-KHEBIZA,M& Martin, P. 2009. Identification of cryptic diversity in Trichodrilus Latreille (Clitellata, Lumbriculidae) in Moroccan ground waters. 11th International Symposium on Aquatic Oligochaeta, 5-12.X.2009, Alanya, Turkey.

AMBALAPARAMBIL Sudhikumar, India

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract:

Spiders play a very significant role in ecology by being exclusively predatory and thereby regulate insect populations. Despite being one of the most diverse groups of organisms, spiders have largely been ignored because of the human tendency to favour some organisms over others of equal importance because they lack a universal appeal. In India, agricultural arachnology is still in its infancy compared with the breadth and depth of entomological research on IPM and biological control. Spiders, despite their ubiquity and high densities, have not received the recognition they need in order to be fully utilized in this enterprise, although their treatment in several recent compendia is encouraging. The diversity, density and breeding behavior of spiders are important in any kind of IPM. Kuttanad rice agroecosystem (0.6-2.2 m below MSL) of Kerala, lying in the southernmost part of India, is blessed with a rich flora and fauna mainly owing to the nearby presence of Western Ghats, one of the biodiversity hot spots of the World. However, it is saddening to observe that no systematic work has been carried out till date on the taxonomy, diversity and feeding of spiders of this area. The present study envisages an in-depth study on the diversity and feeding potential of spiders of this tropical rice agroecosystem. It is expected that the study will expose the original nature of spider fauna of this agroecosystem and bring this otherwise neglected animal group on to the conservation radar screen.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels

Read Mr AMBALAPARAMBIL's GTI reports to find out more about his training.

Mr AMBALAPARAMBIL is currently doing his PhD at the University of Ghent in Belgium. To learn more click here.

ARMENTEROS Maickel, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

Nematodes are the most abundant and ubiquitous invertebrates in marine sediments. They contribute more than 90% of the total density of meiofauna, and are also an important component of the macrofauna.

This project aims at building capacity in nematode taxonomy by:

Determination of structural (e.g. biomass, diversity) and functional features (e.g. production, turn-over ratio) of assemblages in selected areas;
Application of the knowledge on assemblages in order to use nematodes in the monitoring and evaluation of stress,
Identification of nematode fauna andcollection of vouchers
Transfer of gained knowledge to other people.

A large literature body suggests than identification of nematodes to genus is sufficient enough to determine essential aspects of their ecology. It has been suggested that the use of nematodes as bio-monitors can be carried out using the data from the composition by genus of assemblages. The ecological and “applied” approach of this project would be fulfilled on the basis of building taxonomic expertise in order to identify nematodes to genus. The third aim requires deeper knowledge and practice on taxonomy and demands a longer time to fulfill it; but an initial suitable frame would be obtained with this training.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Ghent University, University of Havana.

Gained personal capacity: On 2 December 2009 M. ARMENTEROS obtained his PhD from theUniversity of Gent in Belgium. His PhD entitled'Ecology and Taxonomy of Free-Living Marine Nematodes from CienfuegosBay, Caribbean Sea' and promoted by Dr. W. Decraemer from the RoyalBelgian institute of Natural Sciences in Brussels is a show-case on howstate-of-the art taxonomy can successfully drive forward ecologicalunderstanding of a naturalenvironment.

RBINS taxonomist Dr W. DECRAEMER flanked by her PhD student M. ARMENTEROS minutes after a successful PhD defense

Gained institutional capacity: M. ARMENTEROS home institution (Centro de InvestigacionesMarinas, Universidad de La Habana) has a functional laboratory specialized in marinenematodes, with the main focus of identification of specimens of this group fortaxonomic and ecological purposes. Since CIM-UH is an academic institution,several thesis and trainings to students have done and other ones are inprogress.

Selected output:

Armenteros, M. 2009. Ecology and Taxonomy of Free-Living Marine Nematodes from Cienfuegos Bay, Caribbean Sea. PhD thesis, Ghent University, 204 pp.
Armenteros, M., Ruiz-Abierno, A., Fernández-Garcés, R., Pérez-García, J.A., Díaz-Asencio, L., Vincx, M. & Decraemer, W. 2009. Biodiversity patterns of free-living marine nematodes in a tropical bay: Cienfuegos, Caribbean Sea. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 85: 179-189.
Armenteros, M., Vinckx, M. & Decraemer, W. 2009. Cienfuegia gen. nov. (Xyalidae) and Pseudoterschellingia gen. nov (Linhomoeidae), two new genera of free-living marine nematodes from the Caribbean Sea. Journal of Natural History 43: 1067-1081.
Armenteros, M., Ruiz-Abierno, A. M., Vinckx, M. & Decraemer, W. 2009. A morphometric analysis of the genus Terschellingia (Nematoda: Linhomoeidae) with redefinition of the genus and key to the species. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom: 1-11.
Perez-Garcia, J.A., Armenteros, M., Diaz-Asencio, L., Diaz-Asencio M., Ruiz-AbiernoA., Fernandez-Garces R., Bolafios-Alvarez, Y. & Alonso-Hernandez C. 2009. Spatial distribution of nematode assemblages in Cienfuegos Bay (Caribbean Sea) and their relationships with sedimentary environment. Meiofauna Marina, 17: 71-81.

BUDHA Prem Bahadur, Nepal

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

In terms of biological diversity, the Himalayan region is one of the world's richest ecosystems and has been identified as a "biodiversity hotspot." Nepal is located in the center of the Himalayas and it is a transitional zone between the Palaearctic and Indo-Malayan biogeographical regions. Thus, flora and fauna of these two regions overlaps in Nepal resulting an unique and rich biodiversity in the world, however, many taxonomic groups are yet to be discovered.

Inadequate data and information management is regarded as a biodiversity conservation threat by Nepal's biodiversity strategy plan. Databases on molluscs in this region exists only for Eastern Himalayan (Assam, Darjeeling, Arunachal, Meghalaya, and Burma) and Western Himalaya species (Jammu, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Gahrwal) exluding Nepal. Reports from these areas show that the Himalayan region contains 94.6% and 47.9% endemic terrestrial and freshwater molluscs respectively. But taxonomic work remains to be done in Nepal due to lack of trained nationals. We can expect numerous new species species from many unexplored microhabitats within the extreme altitudinal gradient (60 to 8848 masl) in a country that is on average only 193 km wide).

Training location : Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Gained personal capacity: In a recent survey Mr BUDHA acknowledged that the training he received in Belgium began his taxonomic career on Nepalese mollusks and that it allowed him to continue his studies. His taxon specific tutor, Dr Th. BACKELJAU of the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and professor at the University of Antwerpen, now (jointly wth Dr F NAGGS of the Natural History Museum in London) supervises his PhD. Mr BUDHA was also one of the main contributors to the Darwin Initiative Project 15/018 (Developing land snail expertise in South and Southeast Asia), which ended in October 2009.

Prem also participated in the World Congress of Malacology (WCM) held in Antwerpen (Belgium) from15 to 20 July 2007 where his poster was awarded the WCM-Award of the King LEOPOLD III Fund for Nature Exploration and Conservation.

Gained institutional capacity: Mr BUDHA is involved in teaching at Tribhuvan University, Nepal, which allows him to pass his gained knowledge to junior students. He is also improving the museum of the Zoology Department by depositing type specimens in its collection. Prem also continues his work for the Center for Biological Conservation Nepal (BCCN) which is a non profit making research organization in natural sciences that is registered under the government.

Selected Output

After completing his GTI training, Mr BUDHA effectuated a series of field trips to collect samples from different parts of Nepal. Many of the collected species of snails and slugs taxa are to be considered new to science. Their formal description will soon be available in a series of scientific publications.

The following scientific papers of his hand have already appeared:

Budha, P.B. 2005. Nepalese malacology trails behind. "Catch up!". Himalayan Journal of Sciences 3: 9-10

Budha, P.B. & Naggs, F. The Giant African Land Snail Lissachatina fulica (Bowdich) in Nepal. The Malacologist 50

Documenting the rich, but underestimated, molluscs of Nepal.

CABARROI Milay, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

The monographic study of the poroid hymenochaetaceae (Basidiomycotina) in Cuba is the objective of Ms Cabarroi's PhD thesis. Research involves traditional comparative morphology and molecular systematics with interpretation of ecological and spatial data.

The poroid Hymenochaetaceae have been partially studied in Cuba during the seventies, but since then, the classification of the group changed due to novel insights obtained via molecular systematics. This necessitates an in depth revision of the species concepts that apply to the Cuban material. Next to taxonomic revision of Cuban material, the project also aims to explain the endemism and biogeography of the Caribbean poroids.

Training location: Mycothèque de l´Universite Catholique de Louvain (MUCL).

Read Ms CABARROI'S 2009 and 2010 GTI report to find out more about her training.

Browse through a powerpoint presentation of Ms Cabarroi to learn more about her research

(Left) Ms. M. Cabarroi working in the MUCL lab; (mid) Taking Field notes; (right) working together with fellow GTI student Dr P. IPULET

CHITUNGU Peter, Zambia

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original project proposal)

There is need for me to learn more on methodologies used in the collection and management of fish specimens. I have been in a few expeditions but most of the fishing has been done with help of local fishermen using mostly traditional methods and hook and line method of fishing. I am mainly interested in the using of seine nets for fishing. I have not used the nets many times and the museum does not have the currently. Since I am a museum technician in this field, I would like to learn more about the preservation and management of museum specimens. As a museum, we have scarcity of storage equipment and the course will definitely offer me the opportunity to learn the way fish specimens are preserved.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, from 18 January to 8 February 2006.

CUERVO PINEDA Delfina Naomi , Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

The IES Acarological Collection contains 20000 specimens of mites from 171 species, belonging to 43 families, 96 genera and 6 suborders (Astigmata, Crysptostigmata, Prostigmata, Mesostigmata, Metastigmata and Notostigmata). In the specimens from Cuba there exist 61 holotypes, 395 paratypes and 19 alotypes. However, the state of preservation of these types is in bad shape due to the montage liquid used and the high humidity and temperature of storage. The main purpose of Mrs CUERVO's visit to theRoyal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences is to receive training in the assembly methods, preparation and conservation of Acari with modern techniques so that the morphological characters can be maintained. A second aim is to obtain an overview of the taxonomic and nomenclatural changes that have occured the last decades. Finally, the most important litertaure for acarian taxonomy in the Caribbean will be xeroxed.

Training location and duration: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels; 21.XI.2004 to 26.XII.2004

Gained personal capacity: increased skills in acarian taxonomy.

Gained institutional capacity: the Acaria collection of the Institute of Ecology and Systematics in Havana can now be adequately restored. Mrs Pineda is one of the acaraian taxonomists who will benefit tremendously from the digitization of the reprint collection of DR. Fain. Read more here.

Remarks: in 2006, Ms CUERVO served as assistant tutor in a GTI training course organized in Havana.

Ms Cuervo explains the principle of synonymy during a training course in Havana (Photo by: Y. SAMYN)

Recent output

Cuervo Pineda, N. & Pérez Ortiz, 2009. Primer registro de Geneoprotolichus eurycnemis (Acari: Pterolichidae) para Cuba con la descrpcion de sus esatdios inmaduros. Poeyana 497: 9-13

DANADU MIZANI Celestin

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

DE MORAES Pedro Luis Rodrigues , Brazil

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

The main objective of this project is to study systematically the botanical collections of Brazilian Lauraceae species housed at "Herbarium Belgii" (BR). Type and historical specimens from important collectors of the 19^th century, which are mainly kept in "Herbarium Martii", are essential to the precise identification and classification of taxa. Study of extant Lauraceae collections in BR would complement a data base that has been built for Brazilian species through the annotation and digitized images of all exsiccatae. Additionally, Herbarium BR most probably possess many other specimens that have no duplicates in Brazil, which are also important to be registered.

Read Dr DE MORAES' GTI reports to learn more regarding his visit to BR.

Selected output:

de Moraes, P.L.R. 2005. Lectotypification of names of Brazilian species of Cryptocarya (Lauracea). Taxon 54:789-795

de Moraes, P.L.R. 2007. Taxonomy of the Cryptocarya species of Brazil. Abc Taxa 3: i-iii,191 pp..

Left: Landscape dominated by Cryptocarya; a genus of trees with important ecological and economical properties (Photo by: P. de Moraes); right: bark of C. moschata (Photo by P. de Moraes).

DIBALUKA MPULUSU Simon, D.R. Congo

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract Project 1 (taken from original project proposal)

L'expertise taxonomique fait cruellement défaut en République Démocratique du Congo, particulièrement dans le domaine de la mycologie. Depuis plus dune décennie, avec des moyens limités, nous tâchons néanmoins de poursuivre nos travaux dans ce domaine. L'octroi d'un renforcement de capacité serait le bienvenu car il nous permettrait de valoriser les nombreuses données brutes dont nous disposons et de redéfinir une ligne directrice pour des projets de recherche à mener par notre institution. L'accès aux collections de champignons du jardin botanique de Belgique, les plus importantes pour l'Afrique centrale, ainsi qu'à la bibliothèque, et notamment aux ouvrages de série "Flore illustrée des champignons d'Afrique centrale" éditée par cette institution, nous permettrait d'identifier les spécimens que nous avons récoltés en RDC. Par ailleurs, une formation complémentaire en taxonomie et en gestion des collections, dispensée par les chercheurs du jardin botanique national de Belgique, constituerait une opportunité unique d'améliorer notre expertise en mycologie et de mettre en place un Herbier mycologique de référence à l'Université de Kinshasa.

Abstract Project 2 (taken from original project proposal)

Ce travail qui est la suite des recherches commencées dans le cadre de nos études post-universitaires sur l'étude de champignons de Kinshasa (Lac de Ma Vallée) et de ses environs, consiste à étudier la diversité des macromycètes des forêts claires de Kimvula et de ses environs pendant au moins deux ans afin de noter les modifications qui peuvent provenir de l'intervention de l'homme sur ces forêts et des changements climatiques (par exemple perturbation du régime des pluies). A Kimvula la population ne s'intéresse pas seulement aux champignons de forêts claires pour son alimentation mais aussi aux champignons d'autres formations végétales notamment des forêts galeries, nous avons choisi d'effectuer des enquêtes ethnomycologiques pour connaître l'ensemble des macromycètes utiles du milieu d'étude. Ce travail est complété par des essais d'isolement de quelques souches de macromycètes comestibles saprotrophes à mettre en culture, activité à promouvoir en RDC car elle participerait à la sauvegarde de la diversité des champignons.

Training location: National Botanic Garden of Belgium, Meise.

Read Mr MPULUSU's GTI reports to find out more about his received training.

(left) Mr MPULUSU in the field; (mid) Specimens deposited in the collections of the National Botanic Garden of Belgium by Mr MPULSU; (right) Mr MPULUSU identifies specimens in the lab.

DUMRONGROJWATTANA Pongrat, Thailand

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 Thailand training workshop

EARDLY Connal Desmond, South Africa

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

The bee genus Megachilidae (Hymenoptera: Apidae) is the most diverse bee genus in Africa and ranks among the most abundant bees. Also they are important pollinators for crops and wild plants, which creates a big demand for identification services.

J. Pasteels, a Belgian citizen, revised the genus in 1965 (PASTEELS, J. J. 1965. Revision des Megachilidae (Hymenoptera Apoidea) De L'Afrique Noire. Les Genres Creightoniella, Chalicodoma et Megachile (s. str.). Musee Royal de L'Afrique Centrale- Tervuren, Belgique Annales, Serie In-8- Sciences Zoologiques (137), 1-563). This is an outstanding piece of work dealing with over 500 valid species, but his work has become dated. Also Pasteels did this work when he was old and his eyes were failing, and he missed some important features. Also new material of many species has been collected and this will help make decision where he was unable to do so. It is necessary to re-revise the genus.

The Musee Royal de l'Afrique Centrale and the Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique both have invaluable historic collections for this project. They include, inter alia, type material and other material identified by Pasteels.

This proposal is a request for funds to travel to Belgium, and accommodation in Belgium, for two weeks to study the material in the two organizations mentioned above so that it can be incorporated into my taxonomic revision. Because of its size of the resultant publication it will be published in Zootaxa, an electronic taxonomy journal.

Remarks:

During his stay in Belgium Dr Eardley has trained Kenyan student Mr. J. Macharia in the taxonomy of stingless African bees.
Together with M. Kuhlmann from the Natural History Museum in London and Dr A. Pauly from the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and the Royal Museum for Central Africa, Dr Eardley has prepared a comprehensive volume for Abc Taxa on the taxonomy of subsaharan bee genera and subgenera. This book will be released by Spring 2010.

Connal Eardley (left), reknown South African bee taxonomist; tutor of J. Maccharia from Kenya (right; picture taken in Leeds)

FERNANDEZ VALLE Rigel, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (taken from original project proposal)

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form a widespread and ecologically important symbiosis with more than 70% of vascular plant families in land ecosystems.

Classical taxonomy of these fungi is based on the discrete characters of the spore's subcellular structures and the spore's ontogeny. Assessing the states of these taxonomic characters is however difficult because AMF are hypogeous and microscopic. Detection of glomalean fungi is therefore increasingly done via molecular methods.`

This project involves training of Mr FERNANDEZ in molecular methods for taxonomic purposes and should enebale Mr FERNANDEZ to decide on the taxonomic identity of some of the taxa he detected earlier.

Location of training: Mycothèque de l´Universite Catholique de Louvain (MUCL)

Read Mr FERNANDEZ' GTI reports to find out more about his received training.

Mr Fernadez enjoys a dance at the closing ceremony of the GTI training course in Havana.

GNANVOSSOU Desire, Benin

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (taken from original project proposal)

Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) rank among the most serious agricultural pests that affect tropical fruit and vegetable production in Africa. In 2003, a preliminary research work was initiated on solanaceous and cucurbit crops in Benin and in Cameroon. The four tephritid species Dacus bivittatus, D. punctatifrons, D. ciliatus and Bactrocera cucurbitae were most common in traps and/or infested fruits. Of these fruit flies, D. punctatifrons was the most common in cuelure traps in Cameroon and in Benin, but has not been recorded from tomato in Benin while it is a widespread pest of tomato in Cameroon. This descrepency points either to the emergence of new host type of D. punctatifrons in Cameroon, or that presently available taxonomic and curatorial tools are not sufficient to distinguish the Cameroon and Benin populations. This calls for further taxonomic studies to clarify the identity and diversity of various geographic and host populations of D. punctatifrons.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels and Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren.

Read Mr GNANVOSSOU's GTI reports to find out more about his received training

GUTIERREZ Esteban, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (taken from the origianl project proposal)

In order to complete the taxonomic revision of the American genus Eurycotis Stål (Blattaria: Blattidae: Polyzosteriinae), and an inventory of Neotropical cockroaches species, as outputs of a 3 years on-going project "Taxonomic study of some groups of the Caribbean biota, its exhibition and divulgation" of the Cuban Museum of Natural History, I require 60 days for studying specimens at the RBINS collections in Brussels. Collection studies in the United States of America have been developed in the past by myself, but 17 type specimens of European authors are deposited at different institutions and loans of type material are almost impossible from Cuba. Study of this old type material is essential to define the real taxonomic status of many of these types, as well as, of several possible new taxa, still undescribed, deposited in different collections. RBINS collection contains additional unstudied specimens which will yield much new distribution data and probably, undescribed species relevant to my studies. Exposure to these research collections will allow me a fuller perspective on the species and their systematic relationships, by allowing me to study a wide variety of species and groups from the Neotropics, material not available in the museum collections in Cuba.

Training location and duration: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels; 21.I.2006 to 20.II.2004

Gained personal capacity: type material from various European museums was sent to Brussels for Dr GUTIERREZ to investigate. Dr. GUTIERREZ was also financed for a short (12-15.II.2006) reserach visit to the Geneva Museum of Natural History where he studied types that could not be sent to Brussels.

Gained institutional capacity: Through conferences, Dr. GUTTIEREZ passes his gained skills to his fellow researchers in the National Museum of Natural History in Havana.Read more in this paper

Remarks: in 2006, Dr GUTTIEREZ acted as assistant tutor in a GTI training course organized in Havana.

(Left). Dr GUTTIEREZ (second from right) flanked by GTI student T. SIMOTI and GTI tutor Y. Samyn; (right). Dr GUTTIEREZ teaching during a training course in Havana.

HAMA Oumarou, Niger

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract project 1 (taken from original proposal)

Ce projet s'articule sur une dynamique de recherché sur les macromycètes du Niger. Spécifiquement, les objectifs par l'étude, c'est d'identifier les champignons supérieurs du Niger étant donné que c'est la première du genre dans ce pays. Puis établir leur phénologie. Connaître leur écologie et leur distribution. Faire une étude ethnomycologique dans les différents quartiers. Faire une étude de la valeur nutritionnelle des champignons comestibles et constituer une collection des macromycètes.

Location and period of training: National Botanic Garden of Belgium; 8.XII - 21.12.2006

Abstract project 2 (taken from original project proposal)

Cette étude entre dans le cadre d'une dynamique de recherche que s'articule sur les rives du Moyen Niger jusqu'au Parc national du W du Niger. Il s'agit de fournir une méthode simplifiée afin d'inventorier la diversité des Macromycètes sauvages dans cette aire protégée.

Location and period of training: Université de Lomé, Togo; 3-4.VII. 2007 & 22-26.VII.2007; field training (Togo): 5-2.VII.2007

Read the short report in MycoAfrica to find out more regarding this capacity building expedition.

(left to right) Baner that marks the onset of a minisymposium at the University of Lomé (picture by A De Kesel); GTI students Dr A. Guelly, Ir. O. Hama, Dr M. Dahiratu & Mr. N. Pondika (picture vy A. De Kesel); sampling (picture by A. De Kesel); sorting specimens in the lab (picture by O. Hama); Flore illustré des champignons d'Afrique centrale, a 17 volumes gift by the National Botanic Garden of Belgium (picture by A. De Kesel); the herbarium of the University of Lomé (picture by A. De Kesel)

HERRERA MORENO Henri William, Ecuador

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (adapted from original project proposal)

At present more than 90% of the ant collection of the Charles Darwin Foundation is stored in alcohol, and approximately 10% is poorly mounted. None of this material has been taxonomically analyzed or classified. Due to the present state of the collection, new introduced species of ants might be present in these containers without us knowing about it. Mr Herrera's interest during the program rests therefore with learning techniques and methods for the management of a Formicidae collection. He also wants to enrich his knowledge on the taxonomy of neotropic ants.

The knowledge acquired will allow to build for the first time a scientific reference collection, which will serve as a base for the knowledge of the ants of the Galapagos and of continental Ecuador. It will also enable the elaboration of a checklist of the Galapagos ants, the detection of newly
introduced species, and the development of the first taxonomic key of the subfamilies, genus and species of the Galapagos ants.

This knowledge will allow to make recommendations to the Ecuadorian government on monitoring programs for conservation.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels; from 8 March to 12 April 2008.

HERRERA URIA Jane, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract 1 (adapted from original project proposal)

Viana regina (Morelet, 1849) is an endemic species of western Cuba. It is a very charismatic species due to its characteristic color pattern. According to some authors the genus is monospecific whereby V. regina is made up of three subspecies. The present project aims to revise the taxonomic status of these three subspecies. In a first phase the available literature on this taxon will be assembled and studied. In a next phase, fresh material of the three operational taxonomic units will be collected and studied through comparative anatomy.

Abstract 2 (adapted from original project proposal)

Examination of the literature and the voucher specimens in the collection of the RBINS did not yield a satisfactory resolution on the taxonomic status of the species. Complementary information was obtained through analysis of the 12S, 16S, CO1 and Cyt b genes and this on two out of three form. This project will include also the third subspecies and will yield the needed information to ascertain the taxonomic status of the three forms of V. regina.

Location of training: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels; from 1 to 27 October 2008 and from 5 November to 10 December 2009.

Browse to J. Uria's GTI presentation to learn more about her project.

(Left) Jane Herrera Uria explains her project during a seminar in the RBINS; (right) some GTI & CHM students with some of their taxon-specific tutors (pictures by M.L. Susini and Y. Samyn)

HONGPHATTHARAKEEREE Komson, Thailand

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 training workshop (Thailand)

IPULET Perpetua, Uganda

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract 1 (copied from original project proposal)

Capacitiy building is requested are of two levels: Individual training in Belgium and group trainingin Uganda

1. Individual training at the Mycotheque of the catholic University of Louvain (BCCM/MUCL) needed in:

fungal herbaria and culture collection management: theoretical and practical courses on herbaria and culture collection organization, methods for long-term preservation of living strains, technologies easily transferable at low cost for Uganda.;
material Transfer Agreement related to living fungal resource (pure culture); exchange agreement between the Makerere University and MUCL for safe deposit of the Uganda collection at MUCL and for sending of reference material to Uganda;
modern methods for taxonomy: theoretical and applied trainings in DNA-based taxonomy. This training will be applied to some species complexes in Africa (Fomitiporia punctata and Perenniporia medulla-panis complexes).

Training in Belgium

2. Group training in Uganda by the Belgian supervisor

Dr. Cony Decock will later run a course on wood-inhabiting fungi taxonomy, isolation, purification of strains, in laboratory conditions then demonstration of collecting, preparing herbarium samples, isolating, and purifying strains in the field conditions for group of student at Botany Dept., Makerere University.

Dr Decock's conclusion, as taken from his comprehensive GTI report, is pasted below:

"The training was well organized by the Dr. Perpetua Ipulet, who managed to have good stereomicroscopes and microscopes in a classroom, transportation to Mpganga forest, and to the other places, and very good managing for the Congolese team that was met on time at Mutsora.

In general the training went very well. Students, both Ugandese and Congolese, were very motivated, although some have not necessarily a strong background in mycology. Teaching of mycology remains still poor in Uganda and the situation is worst in RDC.

Collections were very good, especially in Kibale National Park and Mount Rwenzori. In total, about 100 collections were made during the training, and about 50 were obtained in our culture. Several collections of polypores representing undescribed species and genus (probably) have been re-collected and cultured.

In depth studies of these collections, including phylogenetic relationships, are done jointly with the Dr. Ipulet."

C. Decock, 18 March 2008

Left: bench work at Makarere University; middle: Phyllophoria (Boletales) as found in Kibale National Park; right: Discussion with thelocal
population about edible fungi at Mutsora

Abstract 2 (as taken from original project proposal)

This is a follow up of the 2007 project, on pore fungi collected by the applicant during her PhD research in Uganda. The thesis was examined by Dr Cony Decock, Mycotheque de l'Universite de Louvain (MUCL).Dr Decock questioned the determination of some of the species and the applicant's visit to MUCL was useful in confirming this.

At least 11 species had been wrongly identified and at that time DNA analysis failed and collection of fresh material was recommended. Dr Decock visited Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and fresh material was collected, including some of the 11 species above.

DNA analysis should is to be completed still to confirm the status of collections, and to complete microscopic analysis of the collection to fully describe some taxa, both species and genera new to science.

Follow-up training in Belgium. Left: Dr Decock flanked by Ms M. Cabarroi and Dr P. Ipulet; right: Fr Ipulet

Read Dr Ipulet's GTI reports to find out more about how her scientific visit to Belgium has advanced her as a practising taxonomist.Read also her account in the journal MycoAfrica.

Browse through Dr Ipulet's GTI presentation to learn more about her project.

KABLAN Kan Aurore Bel Martine, Ivory Coast

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original project proposal)

Les peuplements de diplopodes jouent un rôle de premier plan dans le fonctionnement des écosystèmes forestiers. Ils sont très actifs dans la décomposition de la litière et le recyclage des éléments minéraux. Pourtant très peu d'études ont été consacrés à l'étude de ces invertébrés. La présente étude se propose d'évaluer l'impact des activités humaines (exploitation forestière, agriculture, etc.) sur l'abondance et la diversité des peuplements de diplopodes en Côte d'Ivoire. Elle s'appuiera sur l'hypothèse selon laquelle les diplopodes sont sensibles à la dégradation des écosystèmes forestiers, et par conséquent, peuvent être utilisés comme indicateurs biologiques pour suivre l'état de dégradation ou de restauration de ces écosystèmes en Côte d'Ivoire. Pour mener à bien ce projet, on procèdera dans un premier temps à une phase pilote qui consistera à étudier dans premier temps la diversité des diplopodes dans les écosystèmes naturels et anthropisés de l'Université d'Abobo-Adjamé. Cette étude permettra de former un (e) étudiant (e), aux techniques d'inventaire et d'identification des espèces de diplopodes. La deuxième partie consistera en un travail de troisième cycle (DEA, Doctorat) portera sur l'impact des cycles de production de la cacaoculture, sur les peuplements de diplopodes en Côte d'Ivoire. La formation d'un (e) étudiant (e) sur la systématique des diplopodes et l'accès à une collection de référence, représentent le point de départ de cet ambitieux projet.

Training location: The Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren.

Ms. A. Kablan behind the scanning electron microscope of the Royal museum of Central Africa ( D. VandenSpiegel)

Read Ms Kablan's GTI reports to learn more about her capacity building visit to Belgium.

On 17 April 2009, Ms Kablan obtained her thesis from the University of Abobo-Adjamé.Her taxon-specific trainier, Dr D. VandenSpiegel of the Royal Museum of Central Africa will, in February 2010, organise a follow-up training in Ivory Coast.

KOMKHAM Pattareena, Thailand

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 training workshop (Thailand)

KUNKOMNOED Jarija, Thailand

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 training workshop (Thailand)

GUELLY Kudzo Atsu, Togo

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (taken from original project)

L'objectif de ce projet est d'acquérir des capacités en taxonomie et en techniques de conservation des Champignons supérieurs en vue de contribuer à la connaissance de la diversité biologique nationale togolaise.

Le Point focal belge pour l'initiative taxonomique mondiale pourra satisfaire nos besoins, d'une part, en fournissant les ouvrages spécifiques de systématique des champignons et d'autre part, en nous aidant à trouver des partenaires pour une franche collaboration dans le domaine.

After having received training in the National Botanic Garden of Belgium, Dr Guelly, together with his Belgian tutor, Dr A. De Kesel planned a follow-up training in Togo. A pictorial impression of that training can be found below. More information in their report.

(Top) banner to announce the training course; (bottom) A Guelly and colleagues perform field work, arrange samples in the lab and diffuse knowledge.

The summary of the comprehensive report (restricted access) of Dr De Kesel is pasted below.

Summary

This report presents the results of a workshop in mycology held in Togo (West Africa) in july 2007. It was organised by the National Botanical Garden of Belgium and the Department of Botany (Faculty of Sciences, University of Lomé, Togo). Most of this project was financed by the Belgian focal point for the Global Taxonomy Initiative. This workshop was set up as an individual and institutional capacity reinforcement training in taxonomy and curation of mycological collections. It was attended by five scientists, 3 from Togo (Lomé) and 2 from Niger (Niamey). The theoretical part was held at the Department of Botany (Faculty of Sciences, University of Lomé). The practical part included an 17-day mycological expedition in the forests and reserves from the districts du Plateau, du Centre and Maritime of Togo. This report presents an exhaustive list of all the herbarium material collected during this foray (314 specimens) as well as perspectives for future research. The herbarium was deposited at the Department of Botany of the University, the duplicates are kept at the National Botanic Garden of Belgium (BR).

A second field course was organized in 2008. The context and the institutional framework can be found in the folder of the GTI candidate that requested funding to attend it: Dr N.S. Yorou.

More information available in the report of Yorou & De Kesel (restricted access)

LOPEZ-CANOVAS Cecilia Irene, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as adapted from original project proposal)

The first Cuban Free-living marine nematodes reference collection has been made by Mrs LOPEZ-CANOVAS. Specimens, mounted in slides, were sampled both in shallow waters and in the deep sea. To arrive at reliable identifications and the formal description of eventual new records or species new to science, comparison with type material is needed. The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, home to an important reference collection, can help in this.

Next to the taxonomic component, this capacity building vist will also be used to learn good practices in nematode collection management.

Read Mrs Lopez-Canovas GTI reports to learn more about her training in Belgium.

Mrs Lopez was also trained by RBINS staff member Dr W Decraemer, during a capacity building workshop in Cuba. The objectives of that workshop were:

To build up capacity in taxonomy of free-living marine nematodes for researchers and para-taxonomists
To improve access to literature by building up a reprint collection
To build up laboratory facilities and equipment

This workshop was organised in Havan from 23 to 27 October 2006. Get a pictorial impression below.

LUM Keng-Yeang, Malaysia

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2004 ext call

MACHARIA Joseph Kimunge, Kenya

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original project proposal)

Stingless bees play an important role in pollination and regeneration of vegetation. However, data on stingless bee diversity is scarce. Several challenges face bee identification such as lack of enough taxonomists, lack of reference collections, poor documentation of bee ecology, behaviour and species distribution, poor understanding of races, hybrids and genetic variability, limited expertise and laboratory facilities. The abundance and species richness of stingless bees will be studied, using standardized honey-water baiting assays. The 10 sites will be grouped in five localities varying in zones. A baiting assay consists of spraying diluted honey on vegetation along transects and recording bee arrival on the same day. Nests architecture details will be studied. Honey from different species will be analysed to determine the composition and variations in different species of stingless bees. This study will introduce economic incentives through awareness creation of their importance and their domestication that integrate biodiversity conservation with economic development.

Training location: Mr Macharia was trained in the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (RBINS) in Brussels as well as in the Royal Museum for Central Africa (RMCA) in Tervuren. His taxon-specific tutors were Dr C. Eardley from the Agricultural Research Council in South Africa and by Dr. A. Pauly, scientific collaborator of both the RBINS and teh RMCA.

When asked how the support of the Belgian GTI advanced his career, Mr Macharia responded that the received support allowed the:

successful completion of his Msc thesis and obtain the award of the degree;
raise of his profile in bee taxonomy in Kenya and beyond;
improvement of his knowledge of the diversity of stingless bees in Kenya;
access to new technology/methodology with new collaborators and interaction with professionals in bee taxonomy;
successful development of stingless beekeeping in Kenya for the first time;
raising awareness among local communities about the urgency of rainforest conservation through explaining the roles of pollinators.

Selected output of Mr Macharia:

Presentations and posters

Presenter (oral and poster): From bee hunting to beekeeping: Stingless bees in Kenya and Antibacterial activity of Kenyan Stingless Bees Honey (Poster). 41^st Apimondia Congress. 13^th - 19^th September 2009, Montpellier, France. (The registration, accommodation and air ticket was catered by Belgian National Focal Point to the Global Taxonomy Initiative, Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences)

Presenter (oral): Stingless Bees in Kenya: Commercialization and Impact on the community. Youth Innovation Challenge and Socialization of Science Workshops. 12^th-17^th July2009, Mombasa Kenya.
Presenter (oral): Topic, Stingless bees Cultures in Africa. Global Pollinator Summit. "25^thto 4^th July 2008, Durban, South Africa.

www.bee-bol.org/durban%20pres/Macharia%20Durban%20Presenation.ppt and

www.barcoding.si.edu/PDF/GlobalPollinatorSummitReport.pdf

Presenter (Poster): Managing Stingless bees for Forest Conservation and Income Generation. Student Conference on Conservation Science. "25^thto 27^th March 2008, University of Cambridge, UK. http://www.sccs-cam.org
Presenter (Oral): The third JKUAT Scientific, Technological and Industrialization Conference and Exhibitions. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya. (March, 2008)

Publications

Macharia J. K (2008). Status and Potential of Stingless Bees (Apidae: Meliponinae) for Forest Conservation and Income Generation; Case Study of Kakamega Forest. Msc Thesis Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

E. M. Muli , J. M. Maingi, J. Macharia (2008). Antimicrobial Properties of Propolis and Honey from the Kenyan Stingless bee, Dactylurina Schimidti. Apiacta Journal 2008 http://www.apimondia.org/apiacta/articles/2008/antimicrobial_properties.pdf

Mr Macharia's work was also briefly covered in the October/November 2009 issue of Science Africa (page 7 & 15)

Through this training and the output of this project Mr Macharia has also been awarded:

Young Professionals in Science Competition (Africa) award, April, 2009, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. (Status and Prospectus of Stingless Beekeeping in Kenya)

Capacity Building course on ‘Pollination Ecology and Bee Biology', Nairobi, Kenya. Funded by Biodiversity monitoring Transect Analysis East Africa (BIOTA-East Africa). August 2008
Miriam Rothschild Conservation Internship award, University of Cambridge, UK and Earth and Biosphere Institute, University of Leeds UK. 28^th March to 27^th April 2008. (Creating computer identification system for East African stingless bees)
The 2010 Prize of the Belgian Development Cooperation. Read more here.

Future plans

In future, Mr Macharia intends to start his PhD studies on Consequences of forest disturbance and climate change on stingless bees in Kakamega forest. This will depend on availability of funds or fellowships.

(Top row, left) C. Eardley and J. Macharia in front of the RBINS; (top row, right) J. Macharia and Y. Samyn discussing nomenclature; (second row) J. Macharia is being congratualted by the Assistant mininster of Agriculture (Kenya) after the Young Professionals in Science Competition; (third row, left) Working with honey hunters to advance stingless bees conservation, folk knowledge and taxonomy; (third row right) Stingless bees in rational hive; (fourth row, left) Training community members on domestication of bees; (fourt row, right) Stingless bee colony.

Mr Macharia won the Prize of the Belgian Development Cooperation 2010 (see picture below):

MOKOSO MANGAMBU Jean de Dieu, D.R. Congo

2012-02-24T09:32:30Z

Abstract (taken from original project proposal)

L'objet général est de décrire l'écologie des Ptéridophytes de moyenne et haute altitude du Parc National de Kahuzi-Biega en RD du Congo et d'établir leur classification.

Les objectifs spécifiques sont de :

déterminer la répartition spatiale des Ptéridophytes du PNKB
déterminer la sociabilité des Ptéridophytes
donner les indicateurs phytoécologiques qui permettent aux Ptéridophytes de se fixer sur différents substrats (sol, plante hôte, rocher et eau)
Elaborer une flore qui facilitera indentification des ptéridophytes dans des conditions écologiques du PNKB et dans la région de rift albetin.

Location of training: National Botanic Garden of Belgium, Meise.

Read Mr Mokoso's GTI report to find out more about his received training.

Browse through Mr Mokoso's GTI presentation to learn more about his project.

MENIOUI Mohamed, Morocco

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 ext call

MWABVU, Zimbabwa Tarombera, South Africa

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

I would like to have access to biological collections, equipment and literature at Africa Museum, Tervuren, Belgium. Current evidence shows that millipede diversity, distribution and phylogeny are incompletely known. This study relies heavily on millipedes held in museums. As more millipedes are being collected taxonomic work continues to lag behind. Thus some material has not been studied and many species remain unknown to science.

Modern millipede taxonomy is re-evaluating existing classifications and phylogenies making use of new technology, techniques and programs. This includes the use of electron microscopy and Auto-Montage software. Therefore, taxonomic revisions of millipede taxa will show their true diversity, phylogeny and distribution. I am working on the revision of three spirostreptid millipede genera, Bicoxidens, Spirostreptus and Archispirostreptus. These millipedes are widely distributed in Africa and are part of the collection held in Africa Museum. Of particular interest would be the material from east and central Africa.

The presence of expertise (at Africa Museum) in the field of millipede systematics will guarantee high quality guidance during my internship.I will also take the opportunity to discuss the possibility of writing a book on the taxonomy of spirostreptids.

Training location: Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren.

Read Mr. Mwabvu's GTI reports to learn more about his training.

Gained personal capacity: My productivity, in terms of numbers of publications in refereed journals, has increased significantly. I have published five manuscripts in the last three years. The taxonomic revisions of four genera have been completed, two have been published. Because of my publications output I stand a good chance of being promoted or get a merit award/ merit notch increase at work (University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa). My PhD research has also benefited from the support that I got from GTI.

Gained institutional capacity: My institution is going to benefit from this training because I am going to be more involved in student training/supervision and collaborative research. In addition, the university receives a substantial amount of money (to fund research) from the Department of Education, South Africa, for every publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Selected output:

Mwabvu, T. & Van den Spiegel, D. (2007). On the generic position of Pseudotibiozus montanus (Attems, 1909) (Spirostreptida:Spirostreptidae). Journal of Afrotropical Zoology 3: 35-40.
Mwabvu, T., Hamer, M. & Slotow, R. (2007). A taxonomic review and description of three new species; and phylogeny of the southern African millipede genus, Bicoxidens (Diplopoda: Spirostreptida: Spirostreptidae). Zootaxa 1452: 1-23.
Mwabvu, T., Hamer, M., Slotow, R. & Barraclough, D. (2009) A revision of the taxonomy and distribution of Spirostreptus (Diplopoda: Spirostreptida: Spirostreptidae) with descriptions of a new speciesand a new genus of spirostreptid millipede. Zootaxa 2211, 36–56.
Mwabvu,T., Hamer, M. L. & Slotow, R. L. (2009) A new species of Bicoxidens Attems, 1928 (Diplopoda:Spirostreptida, Spirostreptidae) species from northern Zimbabwe. ZooKeys 7: 75-81
Mwabvu,T. & Van den Spiegel,D. (2009). Spirostreptid millipedes (Myriapoda: Diplopoda) of the Taita Hills,Kenya, including descriptions of three new species. In: S. M. Roble & J. C. Mitchell (eds.). A lifetime of contributions to Myriapodology and the Natural History of Virginia. Virginia Museum of Natural History, Martinsville, USA.
Mwabvu, T., Hamer, M., Slotow, R. & Barraclough, D. (2010). A revision of the taxonomy and distribution of Archispirostreptus Silvestri 1895 (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Spirostreptidae), and description of a new spirostreptid genus with three new species. Zootaxa 2567: 1-49.

NGEZERA Christine, Tanzania

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

Terrestrial molluscan (snails and slugs) diversity is high in the east African region (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda) with over 1063 documented species. But the information is mostly based on snails. Slugs fauna remains very poorly explored and not emphasised in surveys and there is a substantial taxonomic impediment to further studies. The impediment is in the form lack of taxonomic expertise, and published record and specimens are scattered and mostly inaccessible for Africa. There is a need to build expertise in the taxonomic techniques for slugs which will facilitate more studies to be done and conservation efforts.

Location of training: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Read Ms. Ngereza 's GTI reports to learn more about her training.

During a first visit Dr. Van Goethem of the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences thaugt Mrs Ngereza hwo to dissect slugs (right); for her second visit drawing with the camera lucida was on the agenda (right) (pictures by A. Réveillon and Y. Samyn)

NGUEMBOU KAMANG Charlemagne, Cameroon

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2007 ext call & 2010 ext call

Abstract (taken from original application)

La quasi-totalité des travaux actuellement menés au Cameroun sur la biodiversité porte sur la taxonomie basée sur les caractères morphologiques. Peu d’études sont menées sur la distribution à cause du manque de données disponibles. Le présent projet vise deux objectifs majeurs à savoir, la formation aux techniques de taxonomie moléculaires d’une part, et la formation à la création et à la gestion d’une base de données. La formation aux techniques d’analyses moléculaires sera effectuée au Laboratoire d’étho-écologie évolutive du l’Université Libre de Bruxelles et portera sur l’analyse des échantillons de Bertiera récoltés lors des missions de terrain au Cameroun.

Training location: Université Libre de Bruxelles, Jardin Botanique National de Belgique à Meise.

Left: M. Nguembou sampling on the field (Cameroon). Right: M. Nguembou extracting DNA for sequencing at the ULB (Begium).

Gained personal capacity: Grâce à la bourse du GTI, j’ai complété ma thèse de doctorat par l’étude phylogénique. Cette thèse est intitulée «Phylogénie, Distribution, écologie et taxonomie du genre Bertiera (Rubiaceae) en Afrique. La défense publique a eu lieu le 11 juillet 2008 à à l’Université Libre de Bruxelles. Je suis entrain de préparer une publication sur la phylogénie de ce genre. Pour cela il me faut terminer les analyses phylogéniques. Le résultat final de cette formation sera la publication (en préparation) de la Monographie du genre Bertiera comme volume de la série «Opera Botanica Belgica».

Gained institutional capacity: L’Herbier National du Cameroun ne disposait pas jusqu’à présent de personnel formé aux questions de phylogénie. A cause de ce manque, plusieurs travaux en collaboration avec des universités et institutions n’ont pu être initiés ou réalisés. La formation acquise permettra de combler ce vide.

Vous pouvez en apprendre plus sur le travail de M. Nguembou en lisant les rapports de ses 2 visites ici : Rapports GTI Nguembou

NUTSUAKOR Mac Elikem, Ghana

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2006 ext call; 2008 ext call

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

Although the Bia Conservation Area has been known for its famous supply of snails to the people in the area who are predominantly cocoa farmers which supplements their protein needs as well as their family income, there is however absolutely no documentation on the snail diversity, distribution, abundance as well as productivity. This research seeks to document photographically malacofaunal species as well as threat to their population through combination of standardized time direct search and litter sieving method. Information from this research will prove vital for the formulation of malacofaunal conservation priorities, ensuring the sustainable exploitation of this important biodiversity as well serve as baseline information for other malacofaunal studies in the area. I will further be interested in examining physical and photographic collections of snails from all over Africa. I will have that unique opportunity of getting first hand information from these sources. I will also want to review relevant taxonomic literature, collaborate with Belgian experts as well as building my capacity in collection, curation, taxonomy as well as good practices in taxonomy and curation.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Gained personal capacity:

The training provided me with the introduction to mollusca taxonomy and also offered me the opportunity to establish contact with experts for example, Dr. A. J. (Ton) de Winter of Naturalis, The Netherlands whom I have been working with on the project towards a production of photographic field identification guide. As part of this project I recently won a Martin-fellowship from Naturalis where I spent three month working with Ton and using advance equipments. These would not have been possible if not for initial training from Belgian GTI.

Read Mr Nutsuakor short GTI report.

NYAMBE Terry Simioti, Zambia

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 ext call

Abstract (taken from original project proposal)

The capacity building required can be divided into two categories:

Collection and Management of fish specimens

There is need for me to learn more on methodologies used in the collection of fish specimens. I have been in a few expeditions but most of the fishing has been done with help of local fishermen using mostly traditional methods and hook and line method of fishing. I am mainly interested in the using of seine nets for fishing. I have not used the nets many times and the museum does not have them currently.

Since I am a museum professional, I would like to learn more about the preservation and management of museum specimens. As a museum, we have scarcity of storage equipment and the course will definitely offer me the opportunity to learn the way fish specimens are preserved.

Research and storage equipment is another major problem we face in the natural history department. In the Ichthyology section in particular, there is lack of collecting equipment and storage jars for fish mostly more that 20cm long.

Fish Taxonomy and Systematics

In order to preserve fish specimens for posterity or research, there is need to have specimens properly named and classified. Although I am an assistant keeper of Ichthyology, I have not undergone any formal training in taxonomy and my knowledge is largely by reading books and from interacting with experts. It is therefore imperative that I learn fish taxonomy and systematics if I have to make a major contribution to fisheries science.

There is also a great need for taxonomy and systematics literature that is lacking in our institution. We have a library and qualified librarian staff who could be the custodians of the literature on behalf of museum natural history staff.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Gained personal capacity: The training I received at RBINS was greatly beneficial in several ways. Firstly, we learnt the art of taxonomy from experts from the institute. We further learnt how to identify and classify fresh water fish collections. This training has greatly improved my capacity in my day to day work at the museum. It is a pity that we have been unable to carry out the intended project due to lack of resources. However, the training gave me capacity to be able to identify and classify fresh water fish collections I found within our museum. There is no institution in my country that teaches taxonomy and hence the training I got from GTI was greatly beneficial. Whilst at RBINS, I also learnt how fish specimens were being curated and documented. Peter and I learnt a lot from this too. During our training, we also had the opportunity to visit Royal Museum of Central Africa (RMCA). This museum has a very huge collection of fresh water fish from central Africa. We learnt the processes of curation and documentation of the specimens. We also learnt of the fishbase website they manage. Today, I use the website to consult on fish related issues.

NZIGIDAHERA Benoît, Burundi

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2008 ext call

Abstract (taken from original proposal)

Ce projet de recherche est une contribution à la connaissance des Araignées du Burundi. Il permettra de mettre en évidence la richesse en matière aranéologique des forêts de montagne. Des considérations éco-climatiques et écosystémiques permettront d'identifier les préférences des espèces, à en préciser leur distribution et à en déduire la spécificité suivant les gradients altitudinaux.

Des mesures de la condition par différentes approches ("fluctuating asymmetry", taille absolue, taille relative de l’abdomen) aideront à comprendre les réponses des araignées face aux conditions naturelles du milieu et celles influencées par l’homme. Toutes ces observations aideront à préciser également les indicateurs biologiques et probablement les espèces en danger.

En se basant sur les scénarios possibles sur les effets climatiques sur la forêt, cette étude permettra de mettre en évidence les réponses possibles des araignées face au changement climatique.

Training location: Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren.

Read M. Nzigidahera's GTI report.

OLAYEMI Ayodeji Opeyemi Adewole, Nigeria

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2006 ext call; 2008 ext call

Abstract (taken from original proposal)

Rodent specimens from the genera Hylomyscus and Cricetomys have been sequenced for DNA (cytochrome b gene) from south western Nigeria for the first time. Phylogenetic trees generated by comparing these sequences to those from other geographical areas across Africa demonstrate that the Nigerian specimens are significantly divergent and should be described as separate, distinct taxa. Presently, in addition to the preliminary molecular evidence already obtained, morphological comparisons need to be carried out to identify craniometric and other discrete characters by which to delineate and fully describe these new taxa. The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and the Royal Museum for Central Africa contain cranial series and whole specimens from various countries across Africa that form appropriate and adequate collections for the morphological comparisons proposed in this project. A study visit to Belgium to carry out these analyses will result in publications describing rodent taxa previously unknown from Nigeria.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Read Mr. Olayemi's GTI report to learn more about his training and his research activities.

Left: Extracting DNA from rodent tissue samples at the molecular laboratory of the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.

Right: Observing the results of a PCR on an eletrophoretic gel with another trainee.

Reprints:

Olayemi A. (2007) Taxonomic evaluation by morphometric analysis of various muroid rodents from parts of southwestern Nigeria. PhD Thesis, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria.
Olayemi, A., Nicolas, V., Colyn, M., Leirs, H. and E. Verheyen (2007) Various murid rodents from Nigeria represent cryptic, previously undescribed taxa: preliminary DNA evidence. Poster presentation. 10th International African Small Mammal Symposium, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture. Abomey-Calavi, Republic of Benin, 20-25th August, 2007.
Nicolas, V., Mboumba, J. F., Verheyen, E., Denys, C., Lecompte, E., Olayemi, A., and Colyn M. (2008) Phylogeographical structure and regional history of Lemniscomys striatus (Rodentia: Muridae) in Tropical Africa. Journal of Biogeography 35: 2074-2089.
Olayemi, A. and A. Akinpelu (2008) Diversity and distribution of murid rodent populations between forest and derived savanna sites within south western Nigeria. Biodiversity and Conservation 17: 2411-2425.
Olayemi, A. and A. Akinpelu (2008) Morphometric characterization of the Giant pouched rat (Cricetomys Waterhouse 1840) in the forest zone of south western Nigeria.
Mammalia 72: 229-236.
Nicolas, V., Akpatou, B., Wendelen, W., Kerbis-Peterhans, J., Olayemi, A., Decher, J.,Isaquou, D., Missoup, A. D., Denys, C., Barriere, P., Cruaud, C. and M. Colyn (In press) Molecular and morphometric variation in two sibling species of the genus Praomys (Rodentia: Muridae): implications for biogeography. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society.

ORTIZ MARTINEZ David, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2007 ext call; 2008 ext call

Abstract (taken from original proposal)

Despite of being a charismatic group of animals under threat of illegal trade, little is known about taxonomy, ecology and conservation status of mygalomorph spiders from West Indies, Central America and northern South America. Most known species were described during taxonomy early times in hard to attain publications. Type specimens, mostly deposited in European collections, have not been reexamined and/or redescribed, so most species are impossible to recognize in the field. Furthermore, a huge part of the extant diversity remains unknown to science. This project pretends to taxonomically revise this largely neglected group, firstly clarifying the identity of described taxa and secondly describing a significant number of new taxa. In a previous visit to Belgium I examined about half of the type specimens and copy almost all the concerning taxonomic bibliography of the XIX Century. Results of this project will be the base of my Master’s and PhD’s theses.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Browse through Mr. Ortiz-Martinez GTI report to learn more about his training.

THAI Pham Hong, Vietnam

2012-01-13T08:16:41Z

Abstract (as taken from the original project)

Cicadas or insects of the hemipteran family Cicadidae show the most significant in species diversity and abundant in the tropics and subtropics. Because their nymph spends long period under the ground, cicadas are insects of poor dispersal ability and thus could be model organisms for studies of bio-indicator, speciation and biogeography. The fauna of Vietnam, one of the biodiversity hotspots, is also expected to be rich in cicadas. Faunal studies on cicadas in Vietnam would also contribute to our understanding of general mechanisms that have generated high biodiversity in the region. The insect fauna of cicada have some previous studies from Oriental region: Distant, (1889a, b, 1890a, b, 1891, and 1892), Duffels (1983, 2002, and 2007), Lee, Y. J. & M. Hayashi. (2003, 2004) and Lee, Y. J. (2008)), Japan (Kato, M. (1961)), Korea (Lee, Y.J (1999), China (Chou et al. (1997)). However, cicadas in the eastern part of Vietnam have still been poorly studied taxonomically, preventing us from assessing cicada diversity in the region.

The building of identification capacities and of properly curated reference collections would be of both national and regional importance.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Top: left: Mr Pham Hong Thai collecting in Truong Son forest (Quang Tri province, Vietnam) - right: Mr Thai working in the Dept. of Entomology, at the RBINS.

Middle: left: Mr Thai with his Belgian supervisor Jérôme Constant - right: Visiting the collections in the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Bottom: Pham flanked by Dr P. Grootaert from the RBINS

Browse through a powerpoint presentation of Pham to learn more about his research.

In 2009, Mr Thai, together with his advisor Dr Yang, described a new cicada species (Pomponia backanensis Thai & Yang, 2009), and documented 21 new records of cicada species from his home country. The abstract to his paper can be found here.

Pomponia backanensis Thai & Yang, 2009. a, dorsal view of male; b, ventral view of male;

In 2010, Mr Thai and colleagues described another new cicada species (Euterpnosia cucphuongensis Thai et al, 2010) from his home country, again in the journal Zootaxa. The abstract to his paper can be found here.

Euterpnosia cucphuongensis Thai et al, 2010. A. Dorsal view of male; B. Ventral view of male.

In 2010, Pham and his advisor Dr Yang, while reviewing the genus Lemuriana from Vietnam, publish yet another new cicada species; this time based on material found in the Cicadidae collections at the Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources in Hanoi, and in the collection of the Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle in Paris. The abstract to his paper can be found here.

Lemuriana vinhcuuensis Thai & Yang, 2010. A. Dorsal view of male; B. Ventral view of male.

In 2011, Constant (Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences in Brussels) and Pham continued describing new species resulting from an intensive survey in Vietnam

Hemisphaerus cattienensis Constant & Pham, 2011.

In 2012, Mr Thai and his Taiwanese colleague, Mr Yang, document the first Vietnamese record of the cicadid genus Karenia and describe the new species K. hoangliensis. A dorsal view of the male and a ventral view of the female can be found below.

The abstract can be read here

POLOTOW Daniele, Brazil

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2009 ext call

Abstract

The family Ctenidae is composed of small to large sized spiders (between 4.0 to 40.0 millimetres total body length), with nocturnal and cursorial habits. According to Platnick (2008) the family includes, to date, more than 455 species distributed among 39 genera, abundant in tropical forests all over the world. Ctenidae was proposed to include the genus Ctenus, with the type species C. dubius Walckenaer from the French Guiana. The immature type specimen designated by the author was lost and the original description was superficial. Because of the lack of knowledge of the type species, for several years species clearly not related were described in this genus. To understanding of the taxonomy of the family Ctenidae it is necessary to examine the type specimens of the genera and species included in Ctenidae, making new illustrations and pictures of their diagnostic structures.

Training location: Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren.

Browse through a powerpoint presentation of Ms Polotow to learn more about her research.

PRATHEP Anchana, Thailand

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 training workshop (Thailand); 2006 ext call

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

The Individual and Institutional Capacity building in taxonomy and collection management program would allow me to be trained in seaweed identification and setting up seaweed reference collection in Thailand. The marine benthic flora of Thailand remains poorly studied to date. Some European researchers explored the Thai west coast, Andaman Sea, in the 1950’s, but hardly any data exist on the Gulf of Thailand. Accessible and trustworthy reference collections of marine algae are virtually non-existent in the country, even though seaweeds form an import food source and are locally grown for agar and carrageenan extraction. Therefore, I would like to be trained and studied in three genera of seaweeds, which are rich in diversity and rather common in Thailand namely Caulerpa, Dictyota and Halimeda. Specimens will be collected from the Songkla area and studied at Ghent University. Furthermore, the setting up ‘PSU seaweed reference collection’ will greatly benefit from the knowledge on collection management present in the Research Group Phycology. We now have a small herbarium attached to the PSU Natural History Museum, which has been supported by the faculty and the university. I would then transfer my knowledge gaining from this training through the workshop, database and website under the ‘PSU seaweed reference collection’.

Training location: Ghent University

REYES-HERNANDEZ Mercedes, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 ext call; 2007 training workshop (Cuba)

RODRIGUEZ GOMEZ Ariel Ricardo, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2007 ext call; 2007 ext call; 2007 training workshop (Cuba)

ROUR Elhabib, Morocco

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via; 2005 ext call; Abc Taxa

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

Le genre Tingitana a été crée par Paul Pallary en 1918 pour désigner des Hélicidés possédant une coquille dont, au moins les premiers tours sont carénés à l’état adulte.

L’inventaire actuel des Tingitanes du Maroc comporte 16 espèces dont 12 sont confinées au Moyen Atlas. Malheureusement, seules les coquilles de certaines de ces espèces sont déposées dans la collection Nationale, les autres ne sont connues qu’à travers les descriptions conchyliologiques ou les illustrations photographiques reportées dans les anciens travaux de Pallary.

Nous envisageons faire une collection de ces tingitanes en les récoltant dans leur milieu naturel. Une étude anatomique est aussi plannifiée.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Read Mr Rour GTI reports to learn more about his research.

RUIZ Alexei, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2007 training workshop on nematology (Cuba); 2009 ext call

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

The present project pretends to increase the knowledge about taxonomy of marine nematodes from Cuba. Three main objectives are addressed: (i) description of new taxa for the science, (ii) gain knowledge about management of collections, and (iii) obtain a practical training in molecular techniques. The three objectives require of support of the expertise of Belgian colleagues and the use of capacities from some institution. Main targets include access to literature and microscopy, exchange with a curator, visit to a specialized collection, and practical work with samples for molecular barcoding. The results in short/medium term should be the publication of discovery of new taxa, the consolidation of a reference collection of nematodes in Cuba following modern methodologies, and the application of molecular techniques to the taxonomy of the genus Terschellingia. Transference of gained knowledge should be performed trough exchange with Cuban colleagues but also with teaching activities with BSc and MSc students.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Browse through a powerpoint presentation of Mr. Ruiz to learn more about his research.

left: Mr. Ruiz identifying a sample under binoculars, right: working on a scientific article with his belgian supervisor Dr. Wilfrida Decraemer.

SAMANEZ VALER Iris, Peru

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2005 ext call

SIMO TCHUEMBOU Murielle Michele, Cameroon

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

Avec 206 espèces, Angraecum Bory est un des genres d’Orchidaceae les plus diversifiés en Afrique. Dix neuf sections y sont actuellement reconnues basées sur leurs caractéristiques morphologiques, parmi lesquelles les sections Dolabrifolia et Pectinaria distribuées en Afrique tropicale et à Madagascar. D’intenses missions de terrain menées par l’ULB en collaboration avec ses différents partenaires africains ont permis la récolte de trois nouvelles espèces du genre Angraecum appartenant à ces deux sections. De plus, la distribution disjointe (ACA et Madagascar) entre les espèces de la section Pectinaria accroît certains doutes quant à l’origine monophylétique de cette section. La description des nouveaux taxons et la révision complète de ces deux sections sont donc indispensables. La combinaison de la phylogénie et des études génétiques de population basées sur des échantillons en silica gel récemment collectés permettra d‘utiliser pour la première fois ces nouvelles approches pour la classification des espèces de ces deux sections.

Training Location: Université Libre de Bruxelles

Read Ms Simo Tchuembou GTI report to learn more about her training.

Browse through a powerpoint presentation of Ms Simo Tchuembou to learn more about her research.

Top: Ms Simo sampling on the field. Bottom: Working in the lab. with one of her Belgian supervisors at U.L.B. (Copyright: M. Simo)

SOIFA Ahamed Soilih, Comoros

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

In recent years, holothuroids have been overexploited in the Comoros. In order to make operational a conservation strategy, composition, distribution and abundance of the different holothuroid species present in the Comorese waters must be asssessed. Herefore taxonomic capacity must be raised.

Training location and duration: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels and Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren; from 20.VI.2004 to 04.VII.2004.The training in Belgium was complemented with a field training in the Comoros. Details onthis field training can befound in the mission report of the Belgian tutors.

Gained personal capacity: Mr SOIFA has become the'Point focal holothuries' for his country. In that position, differentstakeholders regularly solicit him.

Gained institutional capacity: through synergy with another capacity building program, in caso a project financed via the African Biodiversity Information Center,the local center of expertise (the 'Centre National de Documentation et de Recherche Scientifique' in Moroni) is now equipped with a dissecting microscope, a light microscope and with materials needed for samplingand preserving holothuroids. The Belgian GTI Focal Point equipped MrSOIFA with a digital camera to allow him to better document the observed species.

Remarks: the above-mentioned capacity building projects culminated in the first volume of the journal Abc Taxa. Scientific results have also been diffused by the Belgian tutors through a poster (Samyn et al., 2005, ) and papers (Samyn et al, 2005, Samyn et al, 2006).

Selected output:

. Arrêté Portant Interdiction Totale d'Exploitation des Holothuriesà des Fins Commerciales.

. VandenSpiegel, D.; Samyn, Y.; Massin, C. 2004. Renforcement des capacités taxonomiques - Les holothuries des Comores. Powerpoint presentation , prepared by the tutors of Mr Soifa; for a press conference in Moroni.

. Soifa, A. VandenSpiegel, D.; Samyn, Y. 2005. Renforcement des capacités taxonomiques -Les holothuries des Comores.Powerpoint presentation prepared by Mr Soifa and his tutors; used for informing the staff of the biology department of the University of the Comores in Moroni.

. Soifa, A. 2009. Les Holothuries des Comores. Mini symposium organised in the series ‘Les Mercredis du CNDRS' sessions. Université des Comores, 08.IV.2008.

Left: Bohadschia subrubra (Quoy & Gaimard, 1833) - a sea cucumber with little commercial value (Photo by: Y. SAMYN).

Middle: Capacity building in the lab (Photo by: D. VANDENSPIEGEL).

Right: Capacity building in the field: teaching where to sample (Photo by: D. VANDENSPIEGEL).

SOULEMANE YOROU Nourou, Benin

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

Les diverses formations végétales ouest africaines abritent une diversité énorme de champignons supérieurs. Le Bénin compte plus de 3000 espèces de champignons supérieurs desquels au plus seulement 1% sont identifiés jusqu´au niveau spécifique. Cette grande diversité contraste fortement avec un manque absolu d´expertise mycologique, contrairement aux plantes. À la faveur des travaux entrepris par le Jardin Botanique National de Belgique (JBNB), on est actuellement en mesure d´affirmer que le Bénin est le seul pays ouest africains pour lequel les connaissances mycologiques sont les plus avancées, bien que de nombreux taxa restent encore non identifiés. De nombreuses expéditions mycologiques suivies parfois de formations intensives en faveur des mycologues locaux ont été entreprises par le JBNB depuis 1997 dans certains pays africains dont le Bénin, le Togo et le Burkina Faso. L´objectif visé est la formation des mycologues mais aussi la mise en place d´un réseau de chercheurs capables de contribuer efficacement à la rédaction des mycoflores de leur pays respectifs. L’expédition de cette année, qui aura lieu au Bénin et au Togo, rentre dans ce cadre et me donnera non seulement l´occasion de collecter des spécimens de mon groupe d´intérêt (Thelephorales) mais aussi de bénéficier de l´expertise taxonomique et systématique des autres collègues. Ceci rentre aussi dans le cadre de la collaboration avec le JBNB liée à la rédaction de la flore des Thelephorales d´Afrique tropicale.

Training location: in Togo by researchers from the National Botanic Garden of Belgium.

Read Mr. Soulemane Yorou GTI report to learn more about his GTI mycological expedition in Togo.

TAEDOUMG Evariste Hermann, Cameroon

2012-01-13T09:37:22Z

Support via: 2008 ext call; 2009 ext call

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

Craterispermum est présent en Afrique, à Madagascar et aux Seychelles. Il n’existe aucun traitement taxonomique prenant en compte toute l'aire de distribution du genre. En l’état actuel des connaissances, il est difficile d’identifier au niveau spécifique le matériel d'herbier existant (plus de 2500 spécimens) ou de dire avec certitude combien d’espèces compte ce genre. La révision du genre fera l’objet de la première partie de ma dissertation doctorale. Pendant mon premier stage GTI, j’ai identifié un nombre d’espèces bien délimitées. Cependant, il existe au sein de Craterispermum, un complexe d’espèces difficile à délimiter. Il s’agit de C. schweinfurthii (distribué du Nigeria à l’Afrique de l’Est) et de C. cerinanthum (distribué d’Afrique de l’Ouest au Congo-Kinshasa). Un séjour au Jardin Botanique National de Belgique me permettra d’étudier en détail les collections de ces deux espèces aux fins de définir les caractères permettant leur séparation.

Training location: the National Botanic Garden of Belgium, Meise.

Top: Mr Taedoumg sampling on the field. Middle: Mr Taedoumg working in the lab at the National Botanic Garden of Belgium.

Bottom: Mr Taedoumg preparing its samples for DNA analyses.

Read Mr Taedoumg's GTI report for his 2009 training.

Browse through a presentation given by Mr Taedoumg to learn more about his taxonomic research.

In 2011 Mr Hermann Taedoumg, together with his Belgian, French and Camoronese tutor published a first scientific paper on his taxonomic work. This work, describing two new species, appeared in volume 29 of the Nordic Journal of Botany.

The abstract of that paper can be read here.

A pdf can be obtained by directly writing to Herrmann (taedoumghe@yahoo.fr)

TANGA Jean Jacques, Gabon

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

L’économie gabonaise est depuis 1970 dominée par l’exploitation du pétrole qui représente plus de 60% des recettes budgétaires et environ 40% du PIB. La forêt occupe le deuxième rang des recettes budgétaires et contribue à moins de 10 % des revenus du pays. Pour contrebalancer les recettes budgétaires issues d’une économie extractive, le Gabon a crée un réseau de 13 parcs nationaux afin de faire émerger une filière écotouristique dynamique. A cet effet, la connaissance de la ressource à travers les inventaires de biodiversité paraît indispensable.

L’acquisition des connaissances supplémentaires par le Conservateur permettra de :

Concentrer l'effort de collecte sur les groupes zoologiques les plus intéressants du point de vue taxonomique ;
Conserver et stocker de manière adéquate les spécimens de faune;
Accroître l’information scientifique du Parc National des Monts Birougou (PNMB);
Avoir pour l’IRScNB une personne ressource performante au PNMB.

Une formation en taxonomie permettra d’accroître les techniques d’identification des poissons, amphibiens, reptiles et mammifères du Conservateur et une meilleure appréciation des relations entre les animaux et leur milieu ainsi que leur diversité et leurs variabilités intra spécifique.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels

Read Mr Tanga's GTI report to learn about his training visit in Belgium.

TCHIBOZO Séverin

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Supported via: 2005 ext call: 2006 int call

THACH Hoang, Vietnam

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

Minimal support is presently provided for fish taxonomic and biodiversity studies and collections in Vietnam, resulting in reducing research interest by young scientists. Knowledge is unclear, scant, and national expertise is in danger of being lost.

Three areas of capacity-building are needed:

Taxonomy of freshwater fishes in Vietnam is poorly know, but an important research area for young scientists, as freshwater species are the most threatened, and have great value in terms of economic development. Training and capacity development in taxonomic methodology, especially morphological aspects, are essential requirements for building national biodiversity and conservation research, and improving the quality of biodiversity and ichthyological education.
The University's significant museum collection of fishes is being degraded due to absence of curation knowledge, skills, and information management. Skills are needed to ensure that this research collection is upgraded and made available for national and international science, and student education
Opportunities for technical cooperation between Vietnamese scientists and international scientists in taxonomy and curation management are needed to accelerate and anchor conservation science in Vietnam, on par with international standards, and stimulate continuing scientific information exchange.

The capacity building attachment with RBINS is seen to directly address these three areas.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Read Mr. Thach GTI reports to learn more about his training.

TRINH DANG Mau, Vietnam

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

Studies on zooplankton, especially rotifers, are scarce in Viet Nam. Apart of a dated study by Shirota (1966), hardly any studies are available and relevant taxonomic expertise is lacking locally. To remedy this situation, and to contribute to the management of Lake Thuy Tien, a taxonomic study on the rotifers of the lake will be conducted. The lake, situated upstream of Hue city in the Perfume river basin, is a crucial element in the hydrology of the basin, especially by its contribution of relatively pure water to the river. It is furthermore an important venue for local tourism to the residents of Hue city and surroundings. Balancing these services requires a science-based management of the lake, which relies on an understanding of its functioning.

The present study will contribute to this by performing a taxonomic inventory of the lake’s rotifer community, a key component in the functioning of aquatic systems.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Browse through a powerpoint presentation of Mr Trinh Dang to learn more about his research.

VALDES Pavel, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (2007 visit)

The ardistomines (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Scaritinae: Clivinini) are a complex formed by three genera, Adistomis Putzeys, Semiardistomis Kult, and Aspidoglossa Putzeys. At present, 54 species are included in Ardistomis, 12 species in Semiardistomis, and 26 in Aspidoglossa. This complex is confined to the Western Hemisphere, ranging on the mainland from Nearctic southeastern USA to Neotropical Argentina and the West Indies. The position of the group inside the Scaritinae is poorly understood and almost nothing has been done about taxonomy, phylogeny, biogeography or bionomics of its members. The type materials of about 80 % of the species described are deposited in European Collections, 32 % in the Putzey’s Collection in Belgium only. Necessarily, a detailed morphologic study of the specimens in Belgian collections is determinant to continue the study of the group in American Collections.

Abstract (2008 visit)

The ardistomines (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Scaritinae: Clivinini) are a complex formed by genera Ardistomis Putzeys, Semiardistomis Kult, and Aspidoglossa Putzeys. At present, 54 species are included in Ardistomis, 12 species in Semiardistomis, and 26 in Aspidoglossa. This complex is confined to the Western Hemisphere, from southeastern USA to Argentina and the West Indies. The position of the group inside the Scaritinae is poorly understood and almost nothing has been done about taxonomy, phylogeny, biogeography or bionomics of its members. Revision of the type material hosted in Europe (about 80% of species) was partially done under GTI 2007 call. To complete this project is necessary the detailed morphologic study of the specimens concerning genus Aspidoglossa as well as general material from other European collections inaccessible at that occasion. The morphologically related genus Oxidrepanus Putzeys with 11 species described is also included.

Abstract (2010 visit)

The ardistomines (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Scaritinae: Clivinini) are a complex formed by genera, Adistomis Putzeys, Semiardistomis Kult, and Aspidoglossa Putzeys. This complex is confined to the Western Hemisphere, from southeastern USA to Argentina and the West Indies. Taxonomy, phylogeny, biogeography or bionomics of its members is poorly understood. This project, partially executed under GTI 2007 and 2008 calls have accumulated a great amount of morphological and distributional data from European collections. Now, the work follows the sense to complete the basic taxonomical studies and to continue working with unidentified material from different collections. Under the necessity to reconstruct the phylogeny in the group and understand their relations within the tribe Clivinini some Neotropical genera has been included. The close relative Oxydrepanus Putzeys and other 5 small genera with an uncertain position near Ardistomines and inside Clivinini: Ancus Putzeys, Climax Putzeys, Pyramis Putzeys, Lachenus Putzeys and Cryptomma Putzeys

Training Location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels

Gained capacity for Mr Valdes: Putzey’s collection at RBINS houses about 45 % of the type material. The Belgian GTI provided support to visit other important collection (Paris Museum of Natural History) or to receive loans from other institutions like Oxford Hope’s Collection, British Museum Collection, Canadian Museum of Nature and particular collections from Czech Rep. and Austria. Publications that result directly from the obtained GTI support: a paper describing seven new Neotropical species of the genus Ardistomis Putzeys (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Scaritinae: Clivinini) with notes about classification and a checklist of species names of that genus has been published by the Bulletin of the RBINS. (read it here). A paper on the taxonomic revision of the genus Semiardistomis Kult (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Scaritinae: Clivinini) is in preparation. Mr Valdes recently also secured a scholarship to go and study in the Smithsonian Institute

Gained capacity for Mr Valdes' institution: These publications will be useful not only for taxonomists, also for people interested in Tropical Ecology or Neotropical Zoogeography, inside or outside Cuba. About curatorial benefits, all material involved on this project from different Collections will be adequately identified, labeled and restored if necessary; given to this part of those collections a strong reference significance. This opportunity provides good chances for collections loans and exchange of exemplars (e.g. in 2007 visit were deposited paratypes of Cuban-Mexican Ardistomis quixotei Valdes in 4 European Collections). In Cuba, 3 carabids collections receive direct attention of this author: Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, Instituto de Ecología y Sistemática and Fernando de Zayas particular Collection by means of increasing their number of specimens identified. Capacity gained during training or interchange with Belgian specialists will be reflected in annual workshops organized by this author through the Cuban Zoology Society related with Practical Entomology, Scientific Illustration and Conservation and Restoration of Zoological Collections in tropical conditions.

To read more about Mr Valdes' capacity building visits in his GTI reports (2007, 2008, 2010)

Top: P. Valdes with his RBINS colleague A. Drumont and Pavel sampling in the field; bottom Ardistomis drumonti, a new species dedicated to A. Drumont of the RBINS

VAN NGUYEN Quan, Vietnam

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2006 ext call

WAIBOONYA Panya, Thailand

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2007 ext call

WAYA Revania Kiduduye

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: 2009 ext call

Abstract

Biodiversity in Lake Victoria is increasingly at risk from human activity such as pollution, overexploitation and widespread catchment deforestation resulting in excess sedimentation. In order to predict ecosystem responses to environmental perturbations, it is essential to have an enhanced understanding of the diversity of various key components of the lake ecosystem. Zooplankton is one of them having a potentially important function in aquatic food webs. Tools for the identification and monitoring of biodiversity i.e. taxonomic keys and molecular methods for species identification will be developed. The project will reduce the knowledge gaps in zooplankton taxonomy of Lake Victoria, the shortage of trained taxonomists and curators, and eventually the ability to understand, manage and preserve biodiversity.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Read Ms WAYA'S GTI report to find out more about her training.

Browse through a powerpoint presentation of Ms WAYA to learn more about her research.

Ms WAYA giving a presentation at the GTI nanosymposium (RBINS, October 2009).

WETSI LOFETE Jean Lambert, D.R. Congo

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract project 1 (taken from original project proposal)

La formation me permettra de mener à bien mes recherches en Lépidopterologie et surtout de bien gérer le Musée de Zoologie de la Faculté des Sciences dont je suis le responsable. Ce Musée, fruit de la coopération belgo-congolaise, est parmi les plus grands en Afrique Centrale mais pas du tout connu et nous travaillons en vase clos. Notre travail nécessite une formation requise sur la muséologie et une connaissance approfondie sur la taxonomie et la systématique, sur la conservation des collections pouvant nous permettre de récolter, identifier et de conserver correctement les collections entomologiques (Lépidoptères) et partant des autres Classes d'animaux, Pour les faire connaître au monde scientifique et profane

Abstract Project 2 (taken from original project proposal)

- Inventaire complet des Saturniidae de la Réserve Forestière de Masako par la capture mensuelle des adultes à l'aide des pièges lumineux.

- Les pattes sont arrachées et plongées dans l'alcool éthylique absolu pour une future étude de DNA Barcoding

- Récolte des œufs, chenilles et chrysalides pour élevage

- Photographie des mâles et femelles de chaque espèce et de leur appareil génital

- Etude de la variation du dimorphisme sexuel

Au laboratoire :

- Ramollissement, étalement des papillons puis identification et conservation définitive des chenilles et imagos

- Au point de vue alimentaire, doser les protéines, lipides, glucides et oligo-éléments chez les chenilles.

Résultats attendus :

- Capture de spécimens d'au moins trente espèces avec possibilité d'y récolter au moins deux espèces nouvelles.

- Description et détermination des espèces nouvelles

- Illustration des œufs, chenilles, chrysalides, adultes, plantes hôtes et biotope des espèces étudiées

- Illustration des pièces génitales des imagos

Training location and duration: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels and Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren; from 01.X.2004 to 07.XI.2004 and from 14.XI.2008 to 6.XII.2008.

Gained personal capacity: increased skills in sampling methodologies, database and collection management and in Lepidoptera taxonomy (study of more then 5500 specimens belonging to an estimated 200 species), network with other entomologists set up (e.g. by participation to the 11th Benelux Congress of Zoology and to the 2008 symposium 'Entomology in Belgium')

Gained institutional capacity: UNIKIS enriched with relevant literature on Lepidoptera taxonomy; UNIKIS enriched with small equipment (e.g. entomological pins, magnifier, killing bottles, etc.); Mr WETSI LOFETE transfers his acquired knowledge and skills to UNIKS students and staff; UNIKIS Lepidoptera collection can now be identified and better managed

Output: In June 2009, Mr. WETSI LOFETE obtained his 'Diplome d'Etudes Supérieures en Sciences, option Biologie' from the University of Kisangani. Mr WETSI is now gearing up to start his PhD.

To learn more about Mr WETSI's projects read his GTI reports.

Left; Mr WETSI LOFETE is thought how to use the digital version of the Zoological Record to retrieve pertinent literature (Photo by: Didier VANDENSPIEGEL); right: specimen of Athletes semialba Sonthonnax as photographed in the Royal Museum for Central Africa (Photo by: Jeroen BOEL)

YAHAYA Ibrahim, Comoros

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

This project is complementary to the one of S.A SOIFA. It aims to make operational the needed human and infrastructural capacity to install and maintain a reference collection of holothuroid specimens.

Training location and duration: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels and Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren; from 20.VI.2004 to 04.VII.2004

Gained personal capacity: Mr YAHAYA is now capable of handling specimen databases.

Gained institutional capacity: laptop equiped with a clone of the specimen database of the holothuroid collection of the Royal Museum for Central Africa; nucleus of a holothuroid reference collection now present in the Centre national de documentation et de recherchescientifique in Moroni.

Remarks: Mr. I YAHAYA benefitted from several other training sessions in Belgium; notably via the African Biodiversity Information Center.

Output: cf. Mr. A. Soifa.

Left: article in a local journal (photo by: Y. SAMYN).
Middle: a small but useful reference collection has been set up (photo by: Y. SAMYN).
Right: boiling of caught sea cucumbers prepares for further processing (photo by: D. VANDENSPIEGEL).

ZAMENA NSITA Jonas, D.R. Congo

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Support via: ext call 2005

Abstract

L'Herbarium INERA de Kinshasa constitue un maillon essentiel dans la chaîne de la recherche sur la botanique en République Démocratique du Congo. Installé à l'Université de Kinshasa, il facilite l'accès de la communauté scientifique tant nationale qu'internationale aux collections végétales. on rôle consiste à maintenir en collection des espèces végétales de référence pour toute l'Afrique centrale.
Deux grands axes de services complémentaires fonctionnent en son sein, à savoir la Botanique systématique et écologique et la Documentation.
Cet herbarium dispose de près de 21000 exsiccata, 4680 espèces, 1520 genres, 188 familles pour les plantes supérieures ainsi que 119 échantillons d'espèces de plantes inférieures et un fonds documentaire de près de 600 livres et périodiques.

Training location: Jardin botanique national de Belgique, Meise.

N'DRI Julien, Côte d'Ivoire

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

Le but principal de cette étude est d’évaluer la diversité biologique des acariens du sol issus des sites échantillonnés, à savoir leur richesse et leur équitabilité, ainsi que l’abondance et la structure des différents peuplements. Spécifiquement, l’étude permettra à terme d’identifier des bioindicateurs de l’état de santé des unités écologiques prospectées. La mise en cultures des terres et certaines activités anthropiques (feux de brousse, braconnages, défrichements anarchiques) modifient considérablement la biodiversité des organismes du sol. Parmi ces organismes la mésofaune et en particulier les acariens sont considérés comme des bioindicateurs de l’état de santé des écosystèmes terrestres, comme le proposent de nombreux auteurs. En Afrique et particulièrement en zone tropicale, le manque de données suffisantes sur la biodiversité des acariens du sol a contribué à ignorer leur rôle dans le fonctionnement écologique des écosystèmes terrestres. En pratique, il s’agira d’échantillonner durant cette étude dans trois zones situées dans deux des trois régions écologiques de la Côte d’Ivoire (secteur ombrophile : Taï ; mésophile : Oumé et zone de transition ou de contact forêt-savane : Lamto).Dans ces trois zones quatre faciès (forêt primaire d’Oumé, plantation de teck âgées de 14 ans, savane arbustive protégée du feu de Lamto et la forêt primaire de Taï) seront échantillonnés selon toute la profondeur utile (0-5 cm ; 5-10 cm ; 10-15 cm ; 15-20 cm ; 20-25 cm ; 25-30 cm ; 30-35 cm ; 35-40 cm), à l’aide d’une sonde de 3 cm de diamètre et ce au cours des deux grandes saisons (grande saison sèche et grande saison des pluies). L’extraction des acariens issus des échantillons de sol de 48 cm3 et de litières de volume variable s’effectuera par le méthode de Berlese Tullgren (1905) modifiée. La mesure des différents éléments chimiques (teneurs des sols en C,N, pHeau etc.) et physiques (teneur en eau, densité apparente, analyse granulométrique) sera faite sur des échantillons composites.

Location of training: Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren.

Julien working in his lab at the RMCA, Tervuren (left), with his supervisor Dr. Henry André (right); receiving the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (bottom)

Read Julien N'Dri GTI report for his 2009 training.

Browse through a presentation given by M. N'Dri to learn more about his taxonomic research.

Thanks to the training and guidance Mr N'Dri received in Belgium, he was enrolled in a PhD program at the Catholic University of Louvain-la-Neuve in Bellgium where on 2 November 2010 he successfully defended his PhD.

Some pictures taken during PhD defense. (left: the audience is listening; right: co-promotor H. André of the RMCA)

YOROU, N.S., Benin

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Context and institutional framework of this project (taken from the comprehensive report of Yorou & de Kesel)

Du 17 mai au 12 juin 2008 une mission mycologique a été tenue au Togo réunissant les mycologues de l´Université de Lomé (l’UL, Togo), du Jardin Botanique National de Belgique (JBNB) et de l´Université d´Abomey-Calavi (Bénin). Cette mission conjointe rentre dans le cadre des objectifs de ces trois instituts et vise, entre autres, l´étude de la mycoflore d’Afrique tropicale et le renforcement des capacités mycologiques locales. Les études mycologiques du JBNB en Afrique de l’Ouest on débuté au Bénin et continuent depuis une dizaine d´années à travers des expéditions répétées et des formations de terrain et de laboratoire avec des étudiants nationaux. Entre autres acquis, on peut citer la formation au Bénin des mycologues compétents capables de conduire des travaux de taxonomie mycologique et plusieurs documentations traitant des champignons supérieurs du Bénin. Une expérience similaire réunissant les mycologues de la Belgique, du Togo et du Niger a été initiée avec grand succès au Togo en 2007 grâce à l´appui financier et logistique du Point Focal Belge pour l’Initiative Taxonomique Mondiale (projet GTI/ExtC/2007.10DeKesel). Vu le grand succès de cette précédente mission, une expédition mycologique a été planifiée en mai et juin 2008 par le l’Université de Lomé (Togo) et le Jardin Botanique National de Belgique qui a souhaité la participation des mycologues venant du Bénin. Pour cette édition 2008, l´appui financier du Point focal Belge pour l’Initiative Taxonomique Mondiale a rendu possible la participation du Dr. Ir. Nourou S. YOROU du Bénin. Les objectifs visés par ce dernier sont les suivants :

Collecte de spécimens appartenant à l´ordre des Thelephorales Hymenomycetes/Fungi) pour des études taxonomiques (révisions et monographie),
Prise de contact avec les collègues mycologues togolais,
Discussions avec les collègues

L’équipe complète de mycologues devant l’entrée de la zone protégée du Parc National de
Fazao. Avec (d.g.à d.) Dr André De Kesel (Jardin Botanique National de Belgique), Dr Ir.
Nourou S. Yorou (Université d’Abomey-Calavi, Bénin), Dr Atsu K. Guelly (Université de
Lomé, Togo), M. Nadjombé R. Pondikpa (UL, Togo), (assis) M. Maba P. Dao. (UL, Togo),
(debout) M. Mustafa (chauffeur de Ouaké, Bénin), M. Etienne Akpene (chauffeur emerite de
l’UL, Togo), Dr Olivier Raspé (JBNB, Belgique) et le chef brigadier du Parc National de
Fazao.

La vérification du matériel fraîchement récolté (transporté en papier aluminium pour éviter les froissements des spécimens) par Dr. Yorou; En bas: le contrôle au labo du matériel séché à l’aide du microscope Olympus de l’Unité de Mycologie de l’UL (Lomé). A gauche Dr Yorou, à droite Dr Guelly. Ce microscope a été financé en 2007 par le Point Focal Belge pour l’Initiative Taxonomique Mondiale (projet GTI/ExtC/2007.10DeKesel)

DELA CRUZ Thomas Edison, Philippines

2011-10-07T18:41:46Z

Abstract

Myxomycetes are a small, relatively homogenous group of eukaryotic organisms, with about 900 known species worldwide. In the Philippines, only selected lowland and highland forests have been surveyed for the presence of myxomycetes. Recent studies by the research proponent showed that many species awaits discovery. Identities of those collected specimens require further confirmation. Thus, this research project looks at selected specimens of plasmodial myxomycetes recently collected from the Philippines and confirms their identities with the myxomycete collection at the National Botanic Garden in Belgium following comparison of their morphologies. The interactive database that will be developed presents the taxonomic description of the collected specimens and their geographic distribution and will serve as a virtual herbarium accessible for researchers, particularly Filipino taxonomists.

Training location: National Botanic Garden of Belgium, Meise.

MORFFE RODRIGUEZ Jans, Cuba

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

The researches on Hystrignathidae (Oxyurida: Thelastomatoidea) from passalid beetles are recent in Cuba, with 16 species described. They are known from a few localities and the hystrignathid fauna from the most of the Cuban ecosystems remains still unknown. With this project we want to realize the taxonomical revision of the family in Cuba and to increase the material of the group in Cuban and foreign collections. As part of the revision we expect to amend the status and diagnosis of some species, to re-describe them and to describe the new taxa found. In this sense we need to perfect the techniques to processing and mounting nematodes. We need to access to type material deposited in foreign collections (that could be borrowed to a Belgian institution) for comparison. This is due to the inaccurately descriptions and drawings of several South American species that resembles Cuban species still unidentified.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.

KALEME Prince Kiswele, South Africa

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

The impacts of fragmentation include habitat loss and increased isolation with many biological effects. The Albertine Rift habitats have two main features: high biodiversity and levels of endemism, and dramatic threat to biodiversity due to high human population densities and pressure on resources. My research will explore the relationship between these mountain fragments within the Albertine Rift and the small mammal distribution as well as the geographic distribution of genetic variation associated with morphological forms. To achieve these goals, species from the genus Praomys will be used because of the current uncertainties in its taxonomy (believed to be species complexes). Data generated by Dr Verheyen’s team for the lowland north eastern DRC and in east Africa (Kenya and Tanzania) have shown the same pattern with our molecular data. This explains the need for a combined molecular dataset which will be used in association with morphometrics data.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels

Read more on Dr Kaleme's capacity building visit to Belgium inn his GTI report

Top, left: P. Kaleme during a discussion with his RBINS tutor Dr E. Verheyen; top right: P. Kaleme in RMCA, measuring skulls; bottom, left: Setting up traps in S. Africa; bottom, right: verifying data records in the Field Museum (USA).

ROJAS RIAÑO Nancy Carolina, Colombia

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

Polythore is a genus of damselflies from the Neotropical rainforest family Polythoridae which includes 19 species being six of these present in Colombia. Color pattern of the wings is essential in the taxonomy of the genus. However, this and other characters show intraspecific variability being difficult to identify some species accurately. In addition, no phylogenetic analysis of the taxa has been conducted. For these reasons this project proposes a taxonomic and phylogenetic study of species of Polythore where the status of the genus and its species will be studied, the diagnostic value of the currently used characters will be evaluated, and the potential taxonomic value of other morphological characters will be assessed. The project will generate a revision that includes: a detailed evaluation of the taxonomic characters used in the group, a key with illustrations for adults, and a phylogenetic analysis of the species of the genus.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Read more on Mrs ROJAS RIAÑO capacity building visit to Belgium in here GTI report

Top: Holotype of Polythore ornata; Bottom: Mrs ROJAS RIAÑO in front of the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.

HOOKER MANTILLA Yuri, Peru

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

Surprisingly, Porifera are among the less known marine organisms of the Peruvian coast. No investigation had been done until recently, mainly because of the lack of national taxonomists. The Peruvian National Action Plan for Marine Biodiversity Assessment aims at inventorying the diversity of poorly known taxonomic groups, and as such, Porifera is a priority group. This is why the ESPER Project was launched by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences in collaboration with the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH). After three expeditions (2007, 2008, 2009) along the entire coast of Peru, 13 students received a field training, 4 of them are engaged in a master thesis. Nearly 800 samples were collected in 105 localities. So far, more than 100 marine species and 3 freshwater ones have been inventoried. Samples are still under study and will be described in an ABC Taxa volume “ Sponges of Peru – Esponjas del Peru”.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

CAKPO Tété Yvonne, Bénin

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

Les coléoptères saproxyliques sont des espèces d’insectes associées au processus de recyclage de la matière ligneuse et sont donc des espèces clefs dans les écosystèmes forestiers. Cette étude a été réalisée dans trois types d’habitats de la forêt classée de la Lama qui ont chacun trois répétitions : forêt dense typique (FDT), anciennes teckeraies (AT) et plantations de bois de feu (BF). Pour comprendre le rôle écologique que jouent ces insectes en fonction de la quantité et la qualité de bois mort présent dans les différents types d’habitats, le cubage et la catégorisation du bois mort ont été réalisés sur un total de 3 ha en FDT et sur un total de ¾ ha en plantations de teck et de bois de feu. Pour la collecte des insectes, des pièges à émergence ont été installés. La périodicité de collecte est d’une fois par quinzaine et cette étude est basée sur une durée de capture de 15 semaines. Aussi, la technique de collecte manuelle a été utilisée. L’inventaire de la faune entomologique à partir des pièges à émergence nous a permis de capturer au total 2985 individus de coléoptères qui représentent 359 espèces appartenant à 29 familles. Le présent travail a bénéficié de la bourse de GTI pour le renforcement des capacités sur la taxonomie des xylophages secondaires. Cette formation a permis l’identification des espèces non identifiées auparavant.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Vous pourrez en apprendre plus sur le travail effectué à l'Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique en lisant les rapports fournis par Yvonne Cakpo.

Yvonne Tété Cakpo visite les collections (haut) et en cours de dissection d'un échantillon (bas) au sein du laboratoire d'entomologie du RBINS.

BARRETO Mauricio Rafael, Colombia

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

Mites are one of the most diverse groups of Arachnida, with a great number of families, genera and species. Many species of mites are parasites of vertebrates, especially mammals and birds. Colombia is a very rich country in the last two taxa, but information regarding parasitic mites of wild animals is scattered in different journals. Besides, there are no checklists of parasitic mites of wild Colombian mammals and birds. This project will generate, for the first time, basic lists of mites associated with wild mammals and birds present in Colombia. At the same time, this project will allow to identify parasitic mites found in our collection. The new knowledge will be available through the National Biodiversity Information System, SiB Colombia.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Read Dr Baretto's GTI report to learn more on his capacity building visit.

To further assist Dr Baretto, the Belgian GTI has taken the initiative to make the impressive reprint collection of the late Dr A. Fain, reknown acarian taxonomist of the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, available. To find out more click here.

HIGUTI Janet, Brazil

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

The Upper Paraná River floodplain (Brazil) extends for about 230km and is a biodiversity hotspot in Brazil. It consists of 4 separate riverine systems and comprises 3 conservation units. The most remarkable biotic communities in this floodplain are those associated with the root systems of floating plants, the so-called pleuston. Ostracoda (Crustacea) abound in the pleuston of most floating plant species. As they are sensitive to water quality, they could act as an early–warning sentinel group for ecosystem deterioration. However, the taxonomy of Ostracoda is still ill-known, which hampers species level analyses. The present project has clearly identified goals, which will solve several of the remaining taxonomic problems and will allow the creation of an identification atlas of this group. Dr Higuti will receive training in taxonomy and collection management and will be assisted in commencing ostracod studies. She will transfer her knowledge through her position at the university.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Read more about Mrs Higuti's project in her GTI report

Get a pictorial impression below.

BERRIO-CARDENAS Claudia Isabel, Colombia

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (as taken from original proposal)

The purpose of this project is to increase knowledge about the presence of freshwater Oligochaeta and their biogeographic range in Antioquia, Colombia. This project will identify specimens collected in 2002-2009 from different locations within the Department of Antioquia. These samples were taken from a variety of environments at many different altitudes and freshwater lotic and lentic habitats. It is anticipated that the classification process may identify members of taxa Naidinae, Pristininae, Tubificinae, Enchytraeidae. Identification will be carried out based on the specialized techniques of Taxonomy to be learned at Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, training provided by the Belgian National Focal Point to the GTI. The results of this project will be presented in an article offered for publication as a paper in an international journal.

Key Words: inventory, new records, freshwater, Annelida, Oligochaeta, North Andean, Neotropical.

Training location: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels.

Dr P. Martin explains the basics of oligochaete taxonomy to Mrs C. Berrio-Cardenas by imaging microscopic structures via a digital camera connected to a laptop.

OLBERS Jennifer, South Africa

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract

South Africa has a strong history of marine taxonomic excellence but echinoderm taxonomy is one that is in danger of ceasing to exist as a result of the loss of expertise without replacement. several recent collecting expeditions (by belgian and south african scientists) resulted in the addition of 51 species of echinoderms to the region while Samyn (pers. comm.) confirms that the material deposited in the royal museum for central Africa (ram) holds many new records for sa. this material has also resulted in preparation of a paper on the genus ophiocoma and subsequent collections in sa have resulted in the discovery of a species of brittle star living within a jellyfish that has not been documented in the region before. other potential publications from the ram collection include an account of the ophiuroidea of sodwana bay which hosts the southernmost coral communities on the east coast of Africa.

Training location : Royal Museum for Central Africa.

Read more on Mrs Olbers project in her GTI reports on her visit in 2010 and in 2011

PAYO Dioli Ann

2011-10-10T11:03:49Z

Abstract (taken from original project)

The red algal genus Portieria is a potentially important source of secondary metabolites (halogenated monoterpenes) for medicinal and pharmacological use. The main goals for my PhD were to better characterize the diversity and distribution of the genus in the Philippines. Previous studies had demonstrated unexplainable variation in secondary metabolites in field collected plants. I tested several hypotheses (spatio-temporal variation, grazing by seaslugs and cryptic diversity) which could potentially account for the variation in secondary metabolites. Of these cryptic diversity presented definitely the most important source of variation. Portieria in the Philippines presents a species complex of at least 30 species which are often geographically confined to single islands. To detect such fine-scale endemism in the marine environment is exceptional. Unfortunately these unforeseen levels of cryptic diversity have delayed part of my phd research.

Training location: the Phycology research Group of Ghent University

From top to bottom and left to right: Portieria collection - Central Philippines; Portieria collection - Central Philippines; with promoter, O. De Clerck; Preparing for Portieria Survey with promoter; After Portieria collection - with promoter and co-promoter, F. Leliaert; Examining herbarium specimens in Leiden Herbarium; Examining herbarium specimens in Leiden Herbarium; and co-promoter; Portieria from the Philippines; Receiving her PhD at Ghent University; Celbrating her PhD with a BBQ