Two new plant species discovered in Occidental Mindoro and Northern Luzon

Two previously unknown plant species have been discovered in the Philippines, highlighting the country’s rich biodiversity.

According to Kuya Kim’s report on “24 Oras,” Friday, the first species, Begonia ilinesis, was initially discovered on Ilin Island in Occidental Mindoro.

The plant is distinguished by its heart-shaped leaves and small flowers that bloom in limestone areas near the coast.

Begonia ilinesis has an unusual survival strategy. During the dry season, the plant enters what is known as seasonal dormancy, slowing or stopping its growth as its leaves dry up and fall off, making it appear lifeless. However, its roots remain alive, allowing the plant to regain its vitality once the rainy season begins.

The discovery of Begonia ilinesis was published in Taiwania, the scientific journal of the National Taiwan University.

Meanwhile, another newly identified species, Paraphlomis aristata, was documented in the journal Phytotaxa.

The plant, which belongs to the mint family, was found thriving in forests in Northern Luzon. It is characterized by clusters of yellow flowers growing along its stem.

Botanist Mark Angelo C. Bucay said that it is only the second species of its kind recorded in the Philippines.

“Pangalawang species pa lang nung halaman na ito ang natagpuan dito sa Pilipinas. Patunay lang ito na napakarami pang mga halaman na nandiyan lang sa tabi-tabi pero kailangan pa nating mas maaral at malaman kung paano sila mapapangalagaan at malaman rin kung maaari ba natin silang magamit sa hinaharap,” he said.

Despite the significance of the discoveries, both plant species are already considered threatened.

“Napakabilis na nagbabago ‘yung mga orihinal nating paggamit sa ating mga lupa. Natatayuan ng mga infrastruktura at nawawala 'yung mga orihinal na tirahan nung ating mga halaman. Kailangang masuportahan din 'yung ganitong biodiversity research dahil malaki ang ating kapuluan at napakarami nung banta sa ating mga species. Ngunit kakaunti lang 'yung mga mananaliksik na nag-aaral para mapangalagaan itong mga ating likas yaman,” Bucay said. —Carby Rose Basina/JCB, GMA Integrated News