Asia has always been captivated by the intricate relationships between plants and their surrounding ecosystems, particularly within the Chihuahuan Desert. Beyond her academic pursuits, she has a deep passion for the outdoors. Exploring nature through hiking has deepened her appreciation for the environment. In her free time, you may find her tending to the garden, where she cultivates various plant species. Gardening serves as a way for her to beautify her surroundings and as a mindful activity that promotes mental clarity and tranquility. Asia completed her BS in Biology, specializing in Plant Biology and minoring in Natural Resource Management, at Sul Ross State University in 2022. She is currently pursuing her MS in Range and Wildlife Management with a specific focus on researching mycorrhizal abundance and diversity on rangelands.

Mycorrhizal fungi are vital, yet often overlooked, components of terrestrial ecosystems. These fungi form symbiotic relationships with plants, facilitating nutrient and water uptake, enhancing plant growth, and contributing to the overall health of our ecosystems. Understanding the roles and interactions of mycorrhizae is a fundamental aspect of ecological research that has far-reaching implications. Asia’s project focuses on looking at mycorrhizal associations between different grazing practices and soils as an indicator of ecosystem health and functioning. Additionally, she aims to investigate the applicability of mycorrhizal fungi in habitat restoration efforts by studying the mycorrhizal associations with native plant species and their responses to various soil amendments.