Bolivia’s Endangered Pepper Capsicum eshbaughii

In the remote landscapes of Bolivia, I have rediscovered an endangered pepper species. The elusive Capsicum eshbaughii, named after renowned botanist Dr. William Eshbaugh. This species offers a glimpse into the biodiversity of the region. Efforts to preserve its natural habitat are very important.

My expedition to Bolivia in 2019 was fueled by curiosity and the desire to explore the lesser-known species of the Capsicum genus. In fact, my friend John Lackey was the sole inspiration for this trip into the unknown. His “white whale” as he called it.

Bolivia’s varied ecosystems make it a hotspot for diverse flora and fauna. Capsicum eshbaughii is endemic to only one high valley known as Samaipata. A single microclimate threatened by human activities and land development.

“Are you going to shit your pants when i find it?”, I asked. John just laughed.

Locating Capsicum eshbaughii

Finding Capsicum eshbaughii was actually a lot easier than I anticipated. While studying the reports of other botanists, I noticed none of them were mentioning the town of Samaipata. I had a feeling that John’s “white whale” would be there waiting for me.

After visiting the local markets in Samaipata, I began walking the roads heading out of town. Within minutes I discovered the first specimen.

The plant stood out from all the roadside vegetation quite well. The white flowers, spider like calyx appendages, sticky glandular trichomes, and vibrant red fruits caught my attention right away. The berries tasted like jungle perfume and packed a surprising pungent spiciness. For a moment I tried imagining what the town of Samaipata must have been like back in the early 80’s and 90’s for Dr. Eshbaugh as he walked these very roads.

Ensuring The Survival Of Capsicum Eshbaughii

The newly submitted classification of endangered status for Capsicum eshbaughii highlights the urgent need for conservation. This pepper species is critically endangered due to habitat loss and environmental changes taking place in Samaipata. Efforts can be made to protect its natural habitat and promote sustainable cultivation practices. Local communities play a crucial role in these conservation efforts, as they possess invaluable knowledge about the plant and its ecosystem.

Farming and Tourism

While economically beneficial to this valley’s human inhabitants, farming and tourism are the main reasons this species has been put on the IUCN Red List and classified as Critically Endangered.

Can we really blame the people of Samaipata, Bolivia for wanting to capitalize on the influx of tourism and the valley’s desirable micro climate for farming?

Llajua Sauce | Bolivia’s Answer To Saving This Species And Other Ulupica?

As a bird distributed roadside hemerophyle, what can be done to preserve this species and its survival?

Capsicum eshbaughii is more than just a bird pepper; it is a symbol of Bolivia’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Often referred to as “Ulupica”, this pepper is commonly used in a traditional Quechuan salsa called “Llajua”.

While I was there walking the roads, I would often meet locals picking the red and green berries to use in their Llajua sauce. So did I really “rediscover” anything at all if the locals know the plant and pepper so well?

For me, the rediscovery of this pepper and it’s endangered classification, offer an opportunity to celebrate and promote the diverse flavors of the region. Incorporating this pepper into traditional Bolivian dishes not only preserves culinary traditions but also raises awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation.

Perhaps the incentive needed for saving this species is simply raising the awareness of the local people to it’s threatened state. Hey people of Bolivia! Ulupica is in danger!