A newly discovered Begonia species, Begonia Blaan, has been officially described in the Nordic Journal of Botany by researchers Mark Arcebal K. Naive, Ceferino M. Occeña III, and Bryll L. Espeja.
The plant was found in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, specifically Barangay Mambucal, and in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, at Ugis Peak, thriving in damp, shaded environments near streams and secondary forests. It closely resembles Begonia quercifolia but features unique floral and leaf characteristics that distinguish it.
Named in honor of the Blaan tribe, Begonia blaan reflects the deep ecological connections between Indigenous communities and their surrounding biodiversity.
The Blaan people, known for their environmental stewardship, inhabit the very landscapes where this newly identified species thrives, highlighting their vital role in preserving the rich plant life of Mindanao.
However, scientists warn that Begonia blaan faces habitat threats, with fewer than 250 mature individuals recorded, prompting a classification of Endangered (EN) under IUCN criteria.
The discovery emphasizes the growing role of citizen science and digital platforms in botanical research, showcasing how collaboration between researchers and local nature enthusiasts can lead to significant scientific advancements.
Begonia is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae, known for their vibrant flowers and ornamental foliage. The genus comprises over 2,100 species, found mostly in tropical and subtropical regions across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
The Philippines is home to over 170 Begonia species, most of which are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world. New species, like Begonia blaan, continue to be discovered in Mindanao’s forests, highlighting the country's rich plant biodiversity.
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