Researchers Discover Four New Plant Species in Thailand.
BANGKOK — A team from the Department of National Parks has identified four new plant species, one of which features a flower that resembles a monkey’s face. This species is known as “Yard Wanorn Pak” in Thai, translating to “monkey’s face dewdrop.”
The newly discovered plants belong to the Yard genus. They include two species found in Saraburi, one in Rayong, and one in Lopburi. These plants thrive in the unique ecosystems of limestone hills and are classified as endangered, facing the threat of extinction.
Following standard botanical research methods, the team consulted Dr. David Middleton, an expert on the Gesneriaceae family, who confirmed that the plants are part of the genus Microchirita. Their findings were published in the Thai Forest Bulletin (Botany), Volume 52(2), pages 80-88, in 2024. Worldwide, there are 51-55 species in this genus, with 41 occurring in Thailand, which is recognized as a biodiversity hub for these plants.
The Four New Species:
Yard Wanorn Pak (Microchirita simia)
Location: Limestone hills in Mueang district, Lopburi province.
Description: This herb grows up to 30 cm tall, with reddish-purple succulent stems. The upper petals and corolla tube are deep reddish-purple, while the lower petals alternate between light yellow and deep reddish-purple. The name “simia,” derived from Latin, means “monkey,” reflecting the flower’s resemblance to a monkey’s face. The type specimen is preserved at the Forest Herbarium.
Yard Orathai (Microchirita orathaiae)
Location: Limestone hills in Khao Chamao district, Rayong province.
Description: This herb can reach up to 40 cm in height. The specific epithet “orathaiae” honors Mrs. Orathai Kerdkaew, a botanical illustrator who has significantly contributed to the Flora of Thailand project. The type specimen is housed at the Forest Herbarium.
Yard Pra-Bhotisat (Microchirita radiata)
Location: Limestone hills in Kaeng Khoi district, Saraburi province.
Description: This herb can grow up to 50 cm tall. The term “radiata” refers to the brown radial lines on the corolla tube. The type specimen is also kept in the Forest Herbarium.
Yard Thamkraborg (Microchirita puglisiae)
Location: Limestone hills in Phra Phutthabat district, Saraburi province.
Description: This herb grows to a height of about 30 cm. The specific epithet “puglisiae” honors Dr. Carmen Puglisi, a noted expert on several genera within the Gesneriaceae family, who contributed to the Flora of Thailand project.
These new plant species are part of the “Flora of Thailand” project, which aims to compile comprehensive data on all plant families found in the country.
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