BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast Rainforest revealed, with Dr Rosa Vasquez Espinoza
11 snips
Nov 25, 2025 Join Dr. Rosa Vasquez-Espinoza, a microbial ecologist and author focused on the Amazon rainforest's hidden life. She shares her indigenous upbringing and how it bridges traditional wisdom with scientific discovery. Explore the ecosystem's biodiversity, from tapirs to pink dolphins, and learn about the crucial role of microbes in nutrient-poor soils. Dr. Rosa highlights threats like deforestation and microplastics while emphasizing the importance of indigenous knowledge in conservation. Plus, discover tips for rewilding your garden to support pollinators!
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Invisible Microbial Foundation
- The Amazon's visible wildlife masks an immense invisible world of microbes that sustain the ecosystem.
- Dr Rosa Vasquez-Espinoza says microbes in soil, water and roots form the base of rainforest life and resilience.
Signs Of Hidden Giants
- Tapirs and many other species leave clear signs even if you don't see them directly.
- Dr Rosa Vasquez-Espinoza recounts finding fresh tapir and jaguar tracks near camp as evidence of nearby wildlife.
Life In The Boiling River
- The Boiling River hosts colourful microbial communities despite extreme heat.
- Dr Rosa Vasquez-Espinoza describes discovering new microbial species there during her PhD fieldwork.
