Description
Plants are grouped into families according to the latest classification system, with all scientific names updated. Local common names are also given, as well as each plant’s distribution, its habitat in Barbados and information relating to its uses, supported by an extensive list of references. The introduction explains the basics of plant classification and provides an overview of the vegetation types that constitute the plant communities of Barbados. A quick method to help identify any plant encountered is provided, focusing on the 12 largest families of plants found on the island. Six diagnostic keys have been added to further help with identification. Key botanical terms are explained using diagrams and a glossary, both useful for the beginner.
Sean Carrington is Barbadian and a Harrison College alumnus. He graduated with a BSc in Biological Sciences (Honours Botany) from the University of Edinburgh and followed this with doctoral research in plant physiology at the University of York (UK). He enjoyed a long career on the academic staff of the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, becoming Professor of Plant Biology in 2002. He served in various administrative roles at the UWI including Dean of the Science Faculty. His research has focused on the biochemistry of fruit ripening as well as the flora of the Eastern Caribbean. Aside from his scientific and technical papers, he authored the earlier editions of this book and Wild Plants of the Eastern Caribbean and was editor and lead author of A to Z of Barbados Heritage. His online pictorial database Plants of the Eastern Caribbean has been used by many. He was made Professor Emeritus of Plant Biology of the UWI on his retirement in 2021.
