The research activity involving a pilot of the methodology for profiling the climate change adaptability of three plants of phytochemical value was completed with assistance from four interns to the programme. Students of the McGill University in Canada completed the internship project during the offshore attachment facilitated at the McGill Bellairs Research Institute.

The students submitted a comprehensive report which can now be used as a model for subsequent assessment of species. The application of this methodology has also been discussed as potentially useful in assisting a fellow grantee as the success of his work plan undergoes measurement.

The phytochemical profiling of the three species was then completed with the assistance of
the Department of Chemistry, Division of Natural Sciences, Barbados Community College, who
provided laboratory space.

The students, graduates of the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination, CXC, conducted
Solvent Extraction and Thin Layer Chromatography to establish the disease resistance of the
three species based on the combination of natural products biosynthesized in their leaves and
stems.

From the research, the plant Cordia curassavica, Black Sage, was found to exhibit the parameters of
greatest adaptability when rated for root system, water retention and phytochemicals. The other plants analysed were Pithecellobium unguis-cati, Bread and cheese, and Jatropha gossypifolia, Bellyache bush.

An interview capturing the views on the value of traditional knowledge in conservation of plants
was conducted with local knowledge bearer Ras Iles.

The full project proposal was approved for implementation.