For over a century, researchers at Barro Colorado Island (BCI), part of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, have been studying the rich biodiversity and complex ecosystems of the tropical rainforests of Panama.
Barro Colorado is a unique and valuable site for scientific research, and its contributions to our understanding of tropical biology and conservation are immeasurable.
100 years of groundbreaking tropical forest research
Barro Colorado Island has been extensively studied, leading to numerous discoveries and insights into tropical ecosystems, making it the most studied piece of tropical real estate and the site of the longest-running conversation in tropical biology.
100 years of
preserving biodiversity
Barro Colorado Island was established as a nature reserve in 1923 and has since played a critical role in the preservation of the region’s unique and fragile biodiversity.
100 years of collaboration
Countless scientists from around the world collaborate and form partnerships that have advance our understanding of tropical ecosystems, making Barro Colorado Island Research Station a model for science diplomacy
100 years of training the next generation of scientists
Students and young scientists on Barro Colorado Island gain valuable experience and training in tropical biology, shaping the future of the field.
100 years of inspiring
public awareness
Public day-visits to Barro Colorado Island raise awareness of the importance of tropical ecosystems, inspiring conservation efforts and a greater appreciation for the natural world.
100 years of advancing sustainability science
The long term research at Barro Colorado Island contributes to the sustainability science, seeking to balance human needs with the long-term health of the planet’s ecosystems.
To mark this momentous occasion, we are hosting events and activities throughout the year, including exhibitions, talks, and public programs. We invite you to join us in celebrating 100 years of discovery and wonder at BCI.
Exhibits
Visit our NMNH Exhibition and Museo del Canal Exhibition to learn more about the history and science of BCI. And don’t forget to stop by our gift shop to pick up a memento of your visit.
May – August, 2023
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, EEUU
May – October, 2023
Museo Del Canal Interocéanico, Panama City, Panama
June 2024
Symposium & Alumni Reunion
The BCI 100 symposium is part of a year-long celebration to celebrate the past, present and future of tropical science, and in particular, the outsize impact Barro Colorado Island has had on the field of tropical biology.
BCI 100
News and Events
Stay up-to-date on the latest news and events happening at BCI, including talks, and field trips.
April 17th, 2023
Happy Birthday BCI
100 Years of Tropical Biology at the Smithsonian’s Barro Colorado Island Research Station in Panama.
November 24th, 2022
BCI Birthday Begins
Barro Colorado 100 Years of Discovery and Wonder exhibit opens in Washington.
Support the next 100 years of science
Help support the future of scientific research at BCI by contributing to the BCI Centennial Endowment. Your donation will help ensure that this unique and valuable site continues to be a hub of scientific discovery for years to come.
100 years of research
Explore the history of research at BCI through our stories, videos, and scientific bibliography. From the groundbreaking studies of the past to the innovative research of today, BCI has been at the forefront of tropical biology for 100 years.
Visit Barro Colorado
Experience the wonder of BCI for yourself by participating in our public program. From guided hikes to wildlife watching, there’s something for everyone at BCI.
On Social
Stay connected with us on social media and share your own experiences and discoveries at BCI. Use the hashtag #BarroColorado100 to join the celebration.
