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2025 gifted us unforgettable moments. From the conservation of emblematic species to unexpected discoveries, this year was filled with learning and wonder. To end it on a high note, we at Mashpi science are glad to share some of the projects that shaped our journey, introduce the people behind the magic of the Research Biology team, and celebrate the first-ever community planting of Magnolia mashpi and Magnolia chiguila, a milestone blossoming with hope.
Magnolias of the Andean Choco: Sowing a Future Together
We closed the year with a proud and emotional milestone: the first community planting of Magnolia mashpi and Magnolia chiguila in the neighboring community of San José de Mashpi.
More than a corporate volunteer day, it was a moment of reconnection with the land, with our values, and with hope. Over 300 native magnolias were planted thanks to the collective effort of Mashpi Lodge staff, the Metropolitan Touring office team in Quito, and local families.
This planting was no coincidence. Since November 2023, we’ve taken on the challenge of germinating these endangered species despite scarce scientific information. We succeeded thanks to local knowledge and shared commitment. People like Magdalena Tipanluiza, the Cando brothers, Fernando Obando, Darwin Chalá, and the Mindo Lindo team made the impossible happen: the magnolias sprouted!
Later, with the support of Fundación Aves & Conservación, we connected these seedlings with landowners who not only welcomed them but signed agreements for their long-term care. Because in reforestation programs, planting is just the beginning of a long-term commitment to care.
Magnolias del Chocó Andino project, implemented by Mashpi Lodge with funding from our alliance with MANE and The Red List Project, is a clear example of how alliances can flourish — and how science, responsible tourism and conservation can grow together.
Meet the Research & Biology Department of Mashpi Lodge
Since its inception, the Research Biology Department has been a cornerstone of Mashpi Lodge’s vision. This passionate and diverse team works every day to integrate the wonders of science into the guest experience strengthen alliances with our network of researchers and generate new knowledge about the cloud forest that surrounds us.
Today, we celebrate and thank the individuals who make science blossom at Mashpi. Because behind every discovery are people deeply committed to understanding, protecting, and sharing the richness of this unique ecosystem.
Jobely Chango – Parabiologist
Joined in 2025 and she cares for our butterflies with dedication. Her background as a nature guide shines through in her passion for the forest.
Alexander Medina – Parabiologist
With nearly eight years dedicated to raising butterflies, Alex also brings his passion for amphibians, reptiles and photography to the team. He is involved in puma research and is a certified national tourism guide.
Carlos Vásquez – Parabiologist
A pillar of the team, Carlos was born in nearby San José de Mashpi and specializes in butterfly behavior. He enjoys sharing his knowledge with guests and neighboring communities to foster awareness and protection.
Darwin Chalá –Parabiologist
Also from Mashpi, Darwin took the lead at the butterfly house this year, optimizing processes and energizing the team. Beyond butterflies, he supports propagation efforts for species like Magnolia mashpi.
Esteban Calvache – Biologist
Though formally joining this year, Esteban has worked with us since 2023, leading spider research. He now also supports butterfly monitoring and curates the lodge’s entomological collection.
Mateo Roldán – Ecologist, MSc.
Since 2018, Mateo has established Mashpi as a hub for science and conservation in the Andean Chocó. He’s built networks, strengthened alliances, led investigations, and fueled discoveries. He also anchors our science communication strategy — connecting guests and numerous stakeholders with our research in powerful ways.
2025: A Year of Scientific Milestones and Shared Commitments
This year, we achieved advances that reflect not only scientific rigor but the power of collaboration and commitment to our forest. Here are some highlights:
- How old is a magnolia?
We launched a pioneering dendrochronology study to estimate the age of Magnolia mashpi trees by analyzing growth rings — adding to our conservation work and helping us better understand the forest’s past.
- Cycads under the microscope
In partnership with national and international allies, we joined an expedition to study zamias, an ancient and highly endangered plant group considered living fossils.
- Anolis lizard behavior
In collaboration with the University of Toronto and Ecuadorian expert Fernando Ayala, we conducted experiments to study Anolis lizards’ reproductive behaviors and how these strategies affect their survival.
- Getting closer to spiders
We continued cataloging spider species and began describing potential new ones. This work has expanded with the addition of biologist Esteban Calvache to our permanent team.
- Beetles on our radar
In collaboration with Universidad Nacional de Loja, we launched our first beetle sampling campaign, exploring a fascinating group previously unstudied in Mashpi.
- A bee yet to be named
Researcher Alexandra Hernández began a native bee diversity study, and early findings suggest one species may be entirely new to science.
- New species officially described
Anthurium roquesevillae and Phragmotheca centinelensis — new anthurium and tree species — were described with allies like Quito Botanical Garden and UDLA University. We’re excited to see what new species 2026 might reveal.
Each achievement is the result of collaboration among researchers, communities, academic institutions and allies who share a common vision: to generate knowledge that protects nature. Thank you to everyone who makes Mashpi Lodge a thriving hub for science in the Andean Chocó.
Thank you for being part of this journey! May 2026 greet us with new questions, new trees, science in bloom, and hearts ever more committed to protecting nature.
Happy New Year from the cloud forest of Mashpi!
