The National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands has concluded the Darwim Plus Project, DPLUS183, on March 31, 2026. Photo: Facebook

The Darwin Plus Project, undertaken in partnership with Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, commenced in January 2026 and fieldwork concluded on March 31, 2026. Photo: Facebook

The project, undertaken in partnership with Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, commenced in January 2026 and fieldwork concluded on March 31, 2026. This part of the project focused on collecting plant tissue and herbarium specimens for DNA extraction and scientific study.

According to the project summary, three biodiversity metrics (phylogenetic diversity, species richness and species threat assessments) will be estimated to direct biodiversity conservation action and management, ecological restoration and research planning to respond to current biodiversity loss and climate change. 

It added that capacity building for local stakeholders will provide new skills to estimate and integrate biodiversity metrics into decision-making and planning habitat restoration in key areas.

From Anegada to Little Thatch Island

The National Parks Trust, in announcing the completion of the project, said the team carried out fieldwork across the Virgin Islands (VI) from Anegada to Little Thatch Island. 

“Every leaf, flower, and specimen collected helps build a deeper understanding of the Virgin Islands’ unique biodiversity and supports future conservation efforts across the BVI.”

Now teams are tasked with completing the final reports, maps, and biodiversity data that will help guide future conservation, restoration, and environmental management efforts in the VI.