Amazing discoveries of new plants - 25th March 2024

Last year, researchers from Kew, the Royal Botanic Gardens in London, classified 76 new plant species and 15 fungi. Expanding our understanding of life on Earth, their journey took them from the frozen wastelands of Antarctica to the lush rainforests of Madagascar. The unique biodiversity of each location led to a range of surprising discoveries.

Take, for example, one astonishing Madagascan orchid. This could have vanished if it hadn't been for local communities protecting its environment. However, their focus wasn't the flower but the endangered 'helmet vanga bird', which calls the area home. There are many occasions where one species owes its existence to that of another.

One tree in Borneo's left scientists puzzled as it manages to reproduce despite both its flowers and fruit growing under the soil. Researchers had the local community to thank for helping them make this discovery, since they've harvested the fruit for generations.

Plants have adapted to survive in the harshest environments across the globe. The scientists observed how trees combat the Kalahari desert's fierce heat by keeping 90 percent of their bulk underground. They even came across lichens covering rocks in the extreme frozen landscapes of the Antarctic.

These discoveries are more than just unusual findings. They provide a window into the health of our planet. Ecosystems rely on a delicate balance in terms of how different animal and plant species coexist. These interactions can be mutually beneficial or problematic. Currently, it's thought that up to 75 percent of the world's unknown species may be under threat due to climate change and human activity.

With an estimated 100,000 plant species remaining undiscovered, there's still much for botanical researchers to do. And in the process of broadening our knowledge, we simultaneously further our appreciation of the wonders of nature.