How many species are there in the Cape Floristic Region? Since the advent of taxonomic exploration in the Cape flora in the 17th century up until the present, 9 383 vascular plant species have been described in the Cape, making it the smallest and third-richest of the world’s global biodiversity hotspots.

Dress warmly and join us on Wednesday, 15th May 2019 at the Rondevlei Tea Room at 18.30 for 19.00 for this exciting talk by the vibrant and passionate Zaynab Shaik.

In this talk, she explores the Cape’s “secret” cryptic species using next-generation DNA sequencing, work based on her MSc research at the University of Cape Town. She will present the new species discovered using these methods (one of which occurs in the Rondevlei reserve) and the importance of species discovery for conserving our precious fynbos.

She started her undergrad at UCT in 2013, majoring in biology and environmental sciences, did her Honours in 2016,and just recently submitted her MSc at UCT in biological sciences, specialising in plant systematics. Currently an intern at the Kirstenbosch Research Centre as part of the South African National Biodiversity Institute and assisting FOZR in various roles.

This is one of those talks you do not want to miss and FOZR will also be doing a lucky draw for a great prize… but you have to be there!

Coffee / Tea / crunchies and cake will be available on a donation basis …

C u all there….

recycling is great for otters