A new plant species of the Begoniaceae family, named Begonia laxiflora, has been discovered in the evergreen closed forest at Dakrong Nature Reserve, Quang Tri province.
This is the result of a supplementary survey of the list of plants and endangered and rare species in Dakrong Nature Reserve conducted from December 2023 to June 2024 with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Biodiversity Conservation Component of the Sustainable Forest Management and Biodiversity Conservation Project (VFBC).
The discovery was made by scientists from the Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources (IEBR), the Institute of Forest Inventory and Planning, and the Dakrong Nature Reserve in Quang Tri Province. The new plant species is believed to be endemic to Vietnam – an important addition to the rich biodiversity of the Truong Son mountain range.
Mr. Truong Quang Trung, Director of Dakrong Nature Reserve, Quang Tri province shared: “The discovery of the new plant species Begonia laxiflora at Dakrong Nature Reserve is a testament to our long-term commitment to conserving and developing biodiversity in the area.
As a convergence of Vietnam’s major plant flows, we believe that with proper investment, the number of additional species for the Reserve as well as new species for science will increase significantly. We are determined to protect Vietnam’s rare plant species and unique ecosystems, making a positive contribution to maintaining the natural heritage for future generations.”
The species is found growing on granite slopes along streams. It is distinguished from other Begonias by its long inflorescences and glabrous capsules, contributing to enriching our understanding of Vietnam's plant diversity.
“USAID is committed to supporting the Government of Vietnam in conserving globally significant biodiversity. The discovery of this new species is a testament to our effective collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and provincial governments in the project area to improve the management of protected areas,” said Annie Wallace, Director of the Office of Climate Change, Energy and Environment, USAID Vietnam.
“It is likely that many new species of plants and animals will continue to be discovered in the Annamites in the coming years. It is important to continue to strengthen the protection of these forests, based on the determination of the Vietnamese Government and people as well as the support of domestic and international organizations interested in biodiversity conservation,” said Mr. Nick Cox, Director of the Biodiversity Conservation Component, implemented by WWF.
The discovery of a new plant species in Dakrong Nature Reserve is of great significance in adding to biodiversity, supporting scientific research and conserving the ecosystem of the area. This also helps us to recognize the health of the environment and raise public awareness about nature protection.
