Dade Chapter meeting: “The Palmetto of Florida: A Living Legacy of Resilience and Adaptation” - Daniel A. Tucker

  “The Palmetto of Florida: A Living Legacy of Resilience and Adaptation”

Daniel A. Tucker - FIU Doctoral Student and Montgomery Botanical Graduate Fellow

 Florida’s native Sabal species, collectively known as the “Palmetto”, exemplify a profound intersection of ecological resilience and cultural heritage. This presentation offers an in-depth examination of the evolutionary, ecological, and historical significance of Florida’s Sabal species.

The discussion will explore the adaptive strategies that have enabled species such as Sabal palmetto to persist across diverse and often challenging environments, ranging from coastal hammocks to pine rocklands. Additionally, it will address the critical conservation challenges surrounding Sabal miamiensis, a species facing imminent extinction, situating this concern within broader themes of habitat degradation and ecological stewardship. This presentation will highlight the urgent and ongoing conservation efforts dedicated to preventing its extinction, including novel horticulture techniques, ex situ cultivation, and collaborative initiatives among botanical institutions and conservation organizations. While the plight of S. miamiensis will be highlighted, it serves as a focal point within a more comprehensive exploration of Sabal’s integral role in Florida’s natural history.

By integrating historical context with contemporary botanical research, this presentation seeks to illuminate the essential ecological functions and historical significance of the Palmetto in Florida's ecosystems. Furthermore, it aims to cultivate a deeper appreciation for these emblematic palms and underscore the urgency of preserving Florida’s native plant biodiversity. Attendees will gain both scientific insight and a heightened sense of responsibility toward the conservation of these iconic species.

  Daniel A. Tucker is a Doctoral Student in the Conservation & Sustainable Horticulture Lab at Earth and Environment Department, Florida International University, and a Montgomery Botanical Graduate Fellow at Montgomery Botanical Center. His research focuses on the identification and conservation of critically endangered and locally threatened palm species in Florida, particularly the recently rediscovered Sabal miamiensis. His work integrates advanced technologies like optical sensors and LiDAR to assess plant health and habitat suitability with traditional botanical field techniques. Daniel’s passion for Florida’s unique ecosystems drives his commitment to safeguarding biodiversity in the face of climate change. He has authored multiple publications on palm conservation and sustainable horticulture practices and actively contributes to conservation initiatives throughout the region. Daniel is also an active member of the South Florida Palm Society and The Explorers Club, reflecting his dedication to botanical exploration and conservation.

This research was funded in part by a Research Endowment Grant from FNPS in 2024. [Support future FNPS grants for worthy research by donating to the FNPS Endowment Fund!]

• Refreshments: You are invited to bring light finger foods and to help set up and clean up afterwards.  Questions? Contact Karina, 305-490-1677 or kmgxoxo@me.com).

• Raffle contributions: Thank you for your native plants or plant-related items!  PLEASE LABEL EACH PLANT with at least the common name written on paper, tape or stake (more info is welcome).

• Online viewing: www.youtube.com/channel/UCmassuC5-OsAX2KsRYQ6X5A. You will see only the computer-based portions of the meeting.  Chat will be enabled.

• Questions:  DadeFNPS@gmail.com

• Past presentations: Use the YouTube link above or from DadeFNPS.org (at bottom of home page), Click Videos or Live for all available recordings.  We regret that February’s program was not recorded due to lack of Wi-Fi that evening.

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