Groundbreaking biodiversity research
HUB carries out collaborative research, conservation, and training to achieve long-lasting impact. We first map the species and interactions that make ecosystems healthy and resilient, particularly in biodiversity "darkspots" that contain many undocumented species, like Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. This work lays the foundation for informed, targeted conservation actions, including habitat restoration, species protection, and ecosystem management. The outcomes help us mitigate climate change, protect biodiversity, and improve human livelihoods.
Brazil’s Atlantic cloud forest
HUB begins its work in Brazil’s Atlantic cloud forest, bringing scientists and communities together to halt extinction in these rich pockets of rainforest. Through locally rooted research, restoration, and sustainable land use, we aim to protect one of the planet’s most biodiverse yet threatened ecosystems.
Our learnings will guide how HUB expands to other priority regions in the future.
Pioneering science in the clouds
Through our Brazilian sister organization Fundação Antonelli para a Pesquisa e Conservação da Biodiversidade, we founded the Atlantic Forest Research and Conservation Alliance (ARAÇÁ). We have built and now operate a field station at the Alto da Figueira reserve, located in one of the last and largest remaining fragments of Mata Atlântica in Rio de Janeiro. This cloud forest stronghold supports long-term ecological research, conservation training, and community-based forest protection.
Exploring one of Earth’s richest forests
The Hidden Universe of an old-growth fig tree
High up in a fig tree, we work with researchers from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and other partners to study the rich web of life it supports: epiphytic plants, and fungi and other microorganisms. DNA from trunk, root and canopy samples is revealing hidden biodiversity and unexpected finds.
Insect megadiversity in the canopy uncovered
Using advanced sequencing and lab infrastructure, we are working in partnership with researchers at the Universidade de São Paulo. By analyzing 20,000 specimens, we aim to map the vertical distribution of insects in the canopy, revealing the hidden insect megadiversity of this little-known biodiversity hotspot.
Cutting-edge sensors to decode biodiversity
Through a partnership with the team at Hexagon/R-Evolution, we are producing advanced remote sensing data, including multispectral and LiDAR, enabling detailed 3D habitat mapping and carbon storage estimates. We will then use artificial intelligence to optimise conservation and restoration efforts.
Save species with science
Your support powers research, restoration, and community partnerships in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. Please donate, collaborate, or visit. Together we can halt extinctions and build resilient ecosystems for people and nature.
join us
Ready to join us in rainforest discovery?
We believe discovery thrives in collaboration. Researchers, students, volunteers, conservationists, and corporate partners are invited to work with us in revealing biodiversity’s secrets and advancing conservation and restoration in Brazil and beyond. Reach out to explore partnership opportunities or get involved.