Biologists have discovered the wildflower Gasteranthus extincus, believed to have been extinct in Ecuador for 40 years.
The wildflower Gasteranthus extincus. (Photo: theguardian.com)
This flower is characterized by its neon orange petals, shaped like cupped bags that facilitate pollination. Scientists found this tropical wildflower at the foot of the Andes and in the remaining patches of forest in the Centinela region of Ecuador, after it had not been seen for 40 years.
According to scientists, deforestation in western Ecuador at the end of the 20th century is believed to have led to the extinction of several plant species, including Gasteranthus extincus.
Despite over 97% of the forests in western Ecuador being destroyed or converted to agricultural land, including much of the Centinela Ridge area, scientists began searching last summer by reviewing satellite images to identify intact areas of primary rainforest. After the initial hours of searching, scientists identified the flower by referencing images of dried specimens, sketches, and other documentation. They carefully photographed and collected fallen flowers to avoid damaging any remaining individuals for classification.
The research team is currently working with conservationists in Ecuador to protect some species that are still growing in the Centinela region, where this flower resides.
Dawson White, a researcher at the Field Museum in Chicago, who participated in the search, stated: “The rediscovery of this flower shows that it’s not too late to find new things even in the worst situations, in a biodiversity environment that is shrinking and declining.” He believes that new species are still being discovered and that humans can still save many plant species on the brink of extinction.
