Plant biodiversity study in Hong Kong

Dr. David T. W. LAU

Shiu-Ying Hu Herbarium, School of Life Sciences, CUHK

Abstract

Hong Kong has about 2000 native plant species that include diversified vegetation types, families and genera. Most native plants have been recorded with their medicinal uses, and they comprise a large proportion of medicinal plants in South China regions. Furthermore, some 300 local species are rare and endangered, which are significant indicators of nature conservation and environmental education. Hence, it is worthwhile to study and document local plants. Since 2013, the Shiu-Ying Hu Herbarium developed various methods to document and research local plants by conventional approaches and genomic studies. Some research findings had been transferred to local education programs. In conclusion, we are aiming to develop a platform of plant documentation for research and education in Hong Kong.