Dr. Beryl Bwong stands as a beacon of excellence in herpetology, the branch of zoology concerned with the study of amphibians and reptiles. As a dedicated herpetologist at the National Museums of Kenya, Dr. Bwong’s profound contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of Africa’s amphibian species. Her extensive research encompasses species identification, habitat analysis, diet composition, and conservation efforts, highlighting her comprehensive approach to the field.
Dr. Bwong’s instrumental work in the discovery and classification of new species is particularly noteworthy. Her research on arboreal Leptopelis in the forests of western Kenya and the identification of a new Reed Frog species from coastal northeastern Mozambique have enriched the scientific community’s knowledge of amphibian biodiversity. These discoveries underscore the critical need for continued exploration and documentation of lesser-known species.
Moreover, Dr. Bwong’s investigations into the environmental factors affecting amphibian populations are invaluable. Her analysis of the diet composition of Xenopus borealis in Taita Hills and the study of amphibian assemblages on Mount Elgon provide key insights into the complex interactions between amphibians and their ecosystems. Such research is vital for comprehending the impact of environmental changes on these sensitive species.
Affiliated with prestigious institutions like the National Museums of Kenya and Universität Basel in Switzerland, Dr. Bwong leverages these platforms to propel her research and make meaningful contributions to the scientific community. Her work on the diversity of ridged frogs in the Guineo-Congolian rainforest and the conservation of refugia in the Coastal Forests of Eastern Africa exemplifies her unwavering commitment to conservation. This dedication to preserving biodiversity is a recurring theme in her research, establishing her as a significant figure in herpetology.
Dr. Bwong’s published research addresses Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 15, 10, 11, 13, and 2, covering critical areas such as genetics and genomics, cancer, environmental science, and food security. Her multifaceted research not only furthers scientific inquiry but also contributes to the global pursuit of sustainability and conservation. Dr. Beryl Bwong’s legacy in herpetology will undoubtedly inspire future generations to continue exploring the rich tapestry of life that thrives within our natural world.
Dr Bwong's research is also available through these links ResearchGate, Taylor & Francis Online
Publications
- Köhler, J., Bwong, B. A., Schick, S., Veith, M., & Lötters, S. (2006). A new species of arboreal Leptopelis (anura: arthroleptidae) from the forests of western Kenya. Herpetological Journal, 16(2), 183–189. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233639468_A_new_species_of_arboreal_Leptopelis_Anura_Arthroleptidae_from_the_forests_of_western_Kenya
- Barratt, C. D., Bwong, B. A., Jehle, R., Liedtke, H. C., Nagel, P., Onstein, R. E., Portik, D. M., Streicher, J. W., & Loader, S. P. (2018). Vanishing refuge? Testing the forest refuge hypothesis in coastal East Africa using genome-wide sequence data for seven amphibians. Molecular Ecology (Print), 27(21), 4289–4308. https://doi.org/10.1111/mec.14862
- Bwong, B. A. (2017). At the crossroads of two biodiversity hotspots; the biogeographic patterns of Shimba Hills, Kenya [PhD Thesis, University of Basel]. https://web.archive.org/web/20210501165331id_/https://edoc.unibas.ch/57212/1/Edoc_Beryl_Thesis_22ND_NOV2017.pdf
- Conradie, W., Verburgt, L., Portik, D. M., Ohler, A., Bwong, B. A., & Lawson, L. P. (2018). A new Reed Frog (Hyperoliidae: Hyperolius) from coastal northeastern Mozambique. Zootaxa, 4379(2). https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.4379.2.2
- Bwong, B.A. (2019). Amphibians and reptiles survey in the Kaya Kauma forest, Kilifi County. In Kioko, E.N, J.M. Jefwa, M. A. Nyangila & E. N. Mbua (eds.), Biodiversity Survey of Kaya Kauma, Kilifi County (pp 68-87). National Museums of Kenya Technical Report to African World Heritage Fund Technical Nairobi, Kenya.