Yogyakarta, 30 October 2025 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted a Guest Lecture featuring Dr. Axel Dalberg Poulsen from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, presenting an engaging topic titled “How Many Gingers Are in Borneo?” The event took place at the Tropical Biology Auditorium and was attended by lecturers and students of the Faculty of Biology UGM.
The lecture began with opening remarks from Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, who expressed his appreciation for Dr. Axel’s visit. In his speech, Prof. Budi conveyed his hope that this event would serve as a gateway for further collaboration in research and academic exchange between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
In his lecture, Dr. Axel presented an overview of the Zingiberaceae family (gingers), which consists of around 2,000 species worldwide. On the island of Borneo alone, there are approximately 24 genera and 260 species. However, these numbers remain dynamic, as new species continue to be discovered and taxonomic classifications are periodically revised. Dr. Axel introduced several ginger species that he and his colleagues have encountered throughout the island of Borneo (Kalimantan).
He also highlighted the challenges in ginger research, including difficulties in collecting field samples, limited access to type localities, and constraints in molecular studies. Additionally, many older specimens have deteriorated and can no longer be used, necessitating recollection from their original locations.
Dr. Axel encouraged students to actively participate and collaborate in plant biodiversity research in Indonesia, particularly within the Zingiberaceae family. The session was met with great enthusiasm from students, who engaged actively during the interactive and inspiring discussion and Q&A.
This guest lecture not only provided valuable insight and inspiration for students but also reflected the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 15: Life on Land, through enhancing understanding and conservation of biodiversity, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering international collaboration in tropical biodiversity research.
