Ashley McGuigan

PhD Candidate, UH Mānoa Botany
My research interests revolve around the links between agroforests, human health, and social-ecological resilience in Fiji. I study the relationships between agroforest plant diversity, ecological functional diversity, and nutritional functional diversity and dietary intake. I also seek to identify some of the socioeconomic, cultural, and ecological drivers of a) native species conservation b) drinking water quality, and c) maintenance of indigenous and local knowledge and associated culturally important products. I use participatory research methods to understand what influences how people value food and other agroforest plant products. My goal is to use this information to help improve environmental and human health and provide policy makers critical information needed to make informed decisions on food security, and biodiversity and cultural conservation for the future of Fiji.