Newly discovered 'hairy' pitcher plant faces extinction risk
Scientists have discovered a new species of pitcher plant with leaves covered in hairs that resemble orangutan fur. It is highly likely that this unique plant is at risk of extinction.
The discovery of Nepenthes pongoides, also known as the hairy pitcher plant, was detailed in the "Australian Journal of Botany."
Unusual news
Scientists have discovered a new species of pitcher plant on the Malaysian island of Borneo, with leaves covered in hairs that resemble orangutan fur. This plant, named Nepenthes pongoides, belongs to the largest known pitcher plants and may be at risk of extinction.
A research team led by Alastair Robinson from the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne encountered this extraordinary specimen during an expedition in the mountainous region of the state of Sabah, in the northeastern part of Borneo.
Nepenthes pongoides is distinguished by the underside of its leaves, which are covered with rusty hairs, making it resemble the fur of the Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus). This similarity inspired scientists to name the plant in honor of the local primate.
Pitcher plants are a type of carnivorous climbing plant known for their characteristic pitcher-shaped traps. These are used to capture and digest insects and small animals; some species also utilize animal droppings and plant debris as a source of nutrients.
The unique species may be at risk of extinction
The newly discovered species has impressive pitchers, reaching up to 18 inches long and capable of holding over half a gallon of water. This makes it one of the largest pitcher plants known to science. Unfortunately, during two research expeditions, only 39 specimens of this plant were found, suggesting its rarity and potential threat of extinction.
As noted by Alastair Robinson, there was already evidence of illegal plant collectors' activities in the region even before scientists arrived, as pitcher plants were being offered for sale online. Due to their striking appearance, they are often sought after on the black market for gardening, further threatening their survival.
