Norma Mamani is a biologist born in Sicuani (Cusco - Peru) whose love for nature and plants led her to devote herself to botany. “I feel very happy. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I feel satisfied doing research,” she says.
From a very young age, Norma felt a deep connection with the Andean landscapes and the biodiversity of her surroundings. This passion led her to study biology at the National University of San Antonio Abad del Cusco - UNSAAC, where she specialized in botany. Years later, she reaffirmed her interest in plants when she began working in the Vargas CUZ Herbarium at that university.
Norma's first major field experience was at , within the Manu Biosphere Reserve. This is considered one of the richest hearts of biodiversity in the Peruvian Amazon. There, Norma, under the guidance of renowned researchers Miles Silman and William Farfán of , delved into tree monitoring and the installation and revision of permanent plots. These experiences allowed her to study how Amazonian trees respond to climatic and ecological factors along an altitudinal gradient, from the Andes to the lowland rainforest.
Norma continued to expand her knowledge and skills by participating in important scientific projects, such as the installation of permanent plots in San Martin and Cusco under the direction of . These works not only gave her a deep understanding of the Amazonian flora, but also of the importance of the interactions between plants, animals and climate change.
Since April 2022, Norma is part of the project “Unraveling the secret life of the Andean bear and its vulnerability to climate change”, led by leading biologist Ruthmery Pillco Huarcaya, in the Manu Biosphere Reserve. In this project, Norma has specialized in studying the diet of this animal using . The research team has found important records on the feeding habits of this emblematic species and has worked closely with local communities, integrating traditional knowledge into their scientific research.
“The entire biosphere reserve is like my second home. I feel very happy for the findings we have made, for the awareness we are raising in the communities,” she says.
For Norma, one of the most rewarding aspects of her work has been environmental education with children and youth from communities near the Manu Biosphere Reserve. Through internship programs, Norma has inspired future scientists and conservationists, instilling in them a love of nature and the importance of conserving their environment.
“Children influence their parents a lot when they talk to them about conservation. Involving these children in my research is gratifying, because in some way we are educating them, and maybe that will produce a future researcher, a biologist who will also want to work for the conservation and protection of this area,” she says.
Despite the challenges of working in the field, such as long hikes in difficult conditions and the initial reluctance of some communities to discuss conservation issues, Norma has overcome these difficulties with perseverance and dedication. Her ability to combine scientific knowledge with local knowledge has been key to her success, allowing her to bridge modern science and ancestral conservation practices.
“I integrate into my research the indigenous knowledge that comes from generation to generation. It complements me and also allows my research to have greater value. The indigenous population of the communities has a lot of knowledge,” he emphasizes.
Norma comments on how, for example, in relation to botany, the communities know the common names and uses of plant species, recognizing which have medicinal or economic value. In addition, in relation to the Andean bear or ukuku (Quechua word), she points out how they know its movement or interaction with other animal species, considering information passed down from generation to generation by their ancestors.
In this way, Norma Mamani is an example of how science and personal commitment can transform both ecosystems and communities, and her work continues to be a source of inspiration for younger generations who wish to follow her path in conservation and scientific research.
“I always tell young people, especially girls, to cultivate their curiosity and don't shut up their ideas. Ask questions, look for answers, and dare to read and investigate a little more,” she concludes.
