A New Species Discovered in Colombia’s Cerro Tusa: A Testament to Biodiversity’s Hidden Treasures
deep within the lush forests of Colombia’s Cerro Tusa, a sacred mountain renowned for its biodiversity, a team of researchers led by biologist Saúl Hoyos has made a remarkable finding: a previously unknown plant species. This exciting find, named Aphelandra mountain-tusae, highlights the vastness of undiscovered life on our planet adn the importance of continued conservation efforts.
The journey to this discovery began in December 2020 when Hoyos and fellow explorer Pablo Aristizábal stumbled upon a vibrant plant unlike any they had seen before. Intrigued,they collected samples,marking the start of a rigorous scientific process to confirm its uniqueness.
Hoyos, a passionate botanist and photographer, meticulously documented his observations during numerous expeditions to Cerro Tusa. He collected specimens, noting their characteristics and habitat, and compared them with existing databases.The confirmation of a new species requires stringent scientific scrutiny. Hoyos’s collection was meticulously examined by John Ri Wood, a renowned specialist in the Acanthaceae family and researcher at the prestigious Botanical Garden of London.After comparing the samples with extensive herbarium collections and scientific databases, Wood confirmed that Aphelandra mountain-tusae was indeed a previously undocumented species.
This discovery underscores the immense biodiversity of Colombia, a country boasting an estimated 11% of the world’s plant species. While scientists have identified over 31,000 species in Colombia, it is indeed estimated that over 15% of plant species globally remain undiscovered.
The finding of Aphelandra mountain-tusae is a testament to the vital work of researchers like Hoyos and the organizations supporting their efforts.Comfama, Activa, and the Government of Antioquia have been instrumental in promoting conservation and preservation in Cerro Tusa, recognizing its ecological significance.
Stefanía Fernández, responsible for sustainability and diversity at Comfama, emphasizes the importance of connecting people with nature and fostering a sense of obligation for its protection. “We celebrate this finding that focuses on life and from cerro Tusa, as from the other parks and natural spaces that we inhabit, we work not only to conserve ecosystems, but for regenerating them in harmony with the nature that we are,” she states.
The discovery of Aphelandra mountain-tusae serves as a powerful reminder of the wonders that still await us in the natural world. It also highlights the urgent need to protect these precious ecosystems and the countless species that call them home.
A New Species in Colombia’s Cerro Tusa: An Interview with a Biodiversity Expert
Time.news Editor: We’re excited to speak with you today about the incredible revelation of a new plant species in Colombia’s Cerro Tusa, officially named Aphelandra mountain-tusae. Can you tell us more about the importance of this finding?
Dr. [Expert Name], Biodiversity Researcher: This discovery is incredibly exciting for several reasons. First,it highlights the immense biodiversity of Colombia.
The country is a global hotspot for plant diversity, housing an estimated 11% of the world’s species. Finding a new species, especially in a well-studied region like Cerro Tusa, emphasizes just how much we still have to learn about the natural world.
Time.news Editor: What can you tell us about the discovery process? how was Aphelandra mountain-tusae identified as a new species?
Dr. [Expert Name]: The process was meticulous and involved several key steps. Researcher Saúl Hoyos, who is a passionate botanist and photographer, first observed Aphelandra mountain-tusae in 2020. He conducted several expeditions to Cerro Tusa, carefully documenting its characteristics and comparing it to existing plant databases.
The key to confirming a new species lies in rigorous scientific comparison. Samples were sent to botanist John Ri Wood at the prestigious Botanical Garden of London for verification. after extensive analysis of specimens and comparisons with existing herbarium collections, Wood confirmed that Aphelandra mountain-tusae was indeed a unique, previously undocumented plant.
Time.news Editor: This discovery also sheds light on the importance of conservation efforts. Can you discuss the threats Aphelandra mountain-tusae might face and the role of organizations like Comfama in protecting it?
Dr. [expert Name]: Absolutely. Many plant species, including newly discovered ones, face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and unsustainable harvesting. Cerro Tusa, though recognized for its biodiversity, is not immune to these pressures.
Organizations like Comfama are crucial in protecting species like Aphelandra mountain-tusae. They are actively involved in conservation and preservation efforts in Cerro Tusa, recognizing its ecological significance and working to regenerate ecosystems sustainably.
Time.news Editor: What message do you hope this discovery sends to the general public?
Dr. [Expert Name]: This finding should inspire awe and appreciation for the natural world. It reminds us that there are still so many undiscovered wonders waiting to be found, highlighting the urgent need to protect biodiversity.We all have a role to play in conservation by supporting organizations that work to preserve these precious ecosystems.