Mongabay · Climate & nature

New 'Devil-like' Flower Discovered in Thailand is Critically Endangered

Botanists in Thailand have identified a new species of fairy lantern plant, Thismia daemona, found in Thong Pha Phum National Park. This unique plant lives mostly underground and has a striking appearance.

Thismia daemona, like other fairy lanterns, lacks chlorophyll and cannot photosynthesize. It derives nutrients from soil fungi while spending most of its life hidden beneath leaf litter. The discovery was surprising as this species was found in a seasonal, montane evergreen forest at nearly 1,000 meters elevation, unlike typical Thismia species found in humid lowland rainforests.

The flower has a dramatic, "devil-like" appearance with a blackish floral tube, dark horn-like appendages, and reddish-orange outer petals. The name Thismia daemona was chosen to reflect its enigmatic and striking features.

Despite its recent discovery, the species is critically endangered. It is known only from a single site within the national park, with fewer than 50 individuals in an area less than 5 hectares. Its habitat is also threatened by tourist activity along park trails.

Researchers have provisionally classified T. daemona as critically endangered based on IUCN Red List criteria. Efforts to inspire local pride in natural heritage are suggested to help safeguard the plant's microhabitat and support community-led ecotourism.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.