New plant, fungal species named in 2023

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Scientists from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew together with international partners present their annual pick of the top 10 plants and fungi described as new to science in 2023. The list includes a parasitic plant from Madagascar that has evolved to mimic a mushroom, a parasitic fungus from the UK that infects other fungi, and a new species of pitcher plant from Borneo that is capable of digesting insects. The discoveries highlight the incredible diversity of life on Earth and the importance of ongoing efforts to document and understand it.

New Plant and Fungal Species Discovered in 2023

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Every year, scientists discover new plant and fungal species, expanding our knowledge of the natural world and highlighting the incredible diversity of life on Earth. In 2023, scientists from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, along with international partners, unveiled their annual list of the top 10 plants and fungi described as new to science. This article delves into some of these fascinating discoveries and explores the importance of ongoing research in understanding and preserving our planet’s biodiversity.

1. New Plant and Fungal Species: Aeranthes bigibbum – A Protected Orchid from Madagascar

Discovered on the island of Madagascar, Aeranthes bigibbum is a unique orchid species found in a small reserve managed by villagers tasked with protecting the rare Helmet vanga bird. The presence of this bird attracts visitors and generates income for the village, incentivizing the protection of the forest and, consequently, the orchid.

2. New Plant and Fungal Species: Underground Trees from Angola

Two new species of underground trees were discovered in the deep, free-draining Kalahari sands of highland Angola. These trees, Baphia arenicola and Cochlospermum adjanyae, have adapted to survive in harsh conditions, with 90% or more of their structure hidden underground.

3. New Plant and Fungal Species: Lichtheimia koreana – A New Fungal Species from South Korea

Lichtheimia koreana is a newly described fungal species isolated from soy waste in South Korea. It belongs to the genus Lichtheimia, known for containing human pathogens. However, L. koreana is not closely related to the pathogenic species, suggesting limited pathogenic potential.

4. New Plant and Fungal Species: Dendrobium lancilabium subspecies wuryae – A Spectacular Orchid from Indonesia

During a mission to rediscover a long-lost blue orchid on the Indonesian island of Waigeo, scientists stumbled upon a new orchid species, Dendrobium lancilabium subspecies wuryae. Named after Mrs. Wury, the wife of Indonesia’s vice-president, this orchid boasts spectacular bright red flowers.

5. New Plant and Fungal Species: Pinanga subterranea – A Unique Palm from Borneo

Pinanga subterranea is the first and only known palm species to exhibit both geoflory and geocarpy, meaning it fruits and flowers almost exclusively underground. This remarkable adaptation has allowed it to survive despite its small and unassuming stature.

6. New Plant and Fungal Species: New Lichenicolous Fungi from Antarctica

Three new species of lichenicolous fungi were discovered on lichens collected near the Spanish Antarctic base. These fungi, Arthonia olechiana, Sphaeropezia neuropogonis, and Sphinctrina sessilis, represent a small fraction of the unknown fungi that thrive in extreme environments.

7. New Plant and Fungal Species: Nine New Species of Nicotiana from Australia

Scientists described nine new species of Nicotiana, a genus of flowering plants commonly known as tobacco. These species, including N. olens with its pleasantly scented flowers, contribute to our understanding of plant adaptation in dry environments.

8. New Plant and Fungal Species: Eight New Species of Microchirita from Thailand

Microchirita fuscifaucia is one of eight new species of Microchirita discovered in Thailand. These herbaceous plants, known for their striking inflorescences, are unfortunately threatened due to habitat loss.

9. New Plant and Fungal Species: New Indigofera Species from South Africa

Several new species of Indigofera, a genus of plants known for producing blue pigments, were described from South Africa. These species, including Indigofera abbottii, face threats due to habitat clearance for agriculture and housing development.

10. New Plant and Fungal Species: Crepidorhopalon droseroides – A Mysterious Plant from Mozambique

Crepidorhopalon droseroides is a newly discovered plant species that resembles a sundew but belongs to a different genus. Its sticky, glandular hairs suggest a potential carnivorous nature, although further studies are needed to confirm this.

Importance of New Plant and Fungal Species Discovery

The discovery of new plant and fungal species is crucial for several reasons:

– Biodiversity Conservation: Understanding the diversity of life on Earth is essential for developing effective conservation strategies. By identifying and documenting new species, scientists can prioritize conservation efforts and protect threatened habitats.

– Ecological Interactions: New species discoveries help us understand ecological interactions and the roles they play in ecosystems. This knowledge is vital for maintaining ecosystem balance and addressing environmental challenges.

– Potential Applications: Many newly discovered species have potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry. For example, plants may contain undiscovered medicinal compounds, while fungi may produce enzymes with industrial uses.

– Scientific Knowledge: The discovery of new species expands our scientific knowledge and deepens our understanding of the evolutionary history and diversity of life. This knowledge is fundamental to advancing biological sciences and addressing global challenges.

In conclusion, the discovery of new plant and fungal species is an ongoing process that contributes to our understanding of biodiversity, ecological interactions, and potential applications. These discoveries highlight the importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect the natural world and ensure the sustainability of life on Earth..

FAQs

1. Why is it important to discover new plant and fungal species?

Discovering new plant and fungal species is crucial for biodiversity conservation, understanding ecological interactions, identifying potential applications in medicine and industry, and expanding scientific knowledge.

2. How many new plant and fungal species were discovered in 2023?

The article does not specify the total number of new plant and fungal species discovered in 2023. It focuses on highlighting some notable discoveries from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and international partners.

3. What are some of the unique characteristics of the Aeranthes bigibbum orchid?

Aeranthes bigibbum is a unique orchid species found in Madagascar. It is protected by villagers who manage a small reserve to preserve the Helmet vanga bird, whose presence attracts visitors and generates income for the village.

4. What is remarkable about the underground trees discovered in Angola?

Two new species of underground trees, Baphia arenicola and Cochlospermum adjanyae, were discovered in Angola. These trees have adapted to survive in harsh conditions, with 90% or more of their structure hidden underground.

5. What is the significance of the discovery of new lichenicolous fungi in Antarctica?

The discovery of three new species of lichenicolous fungi in Antarctica highlights the existence of unknown fungi that thrive in extreme environments. These findings contribute to our understanding of biodiversity and ecological interactions in Antarctica.

Links to additional Resources:

1. https://www.kew.org/ 2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/ 3. https://www.nature.com/.