Begonia Kayinensis New Species Unearthed in Myanmar With Colorful Appearance

The latest study discovered a new species of Begonia in the Kayin State in Southern Myanmar. The discovery can protect the species from possible decline.

Myanmar is home to different Begonia species. Begonia has a colorful appearance of flowers and leaves. It is mostly found in gardens and urban areas.

Discovering different species, including plants and animals, protects them from decline or extinction.

Begonia Kayinensis New Species

(Photo : by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)
A stock photo of Begonias. Researchers uncovered a new species of Begonia in the Kayin State in Southern Myanmar. The species was named Begonia kayinensis. The discovery helps to protect from potential threats.

 In a recent report, researchers discovered an unfamiliar species of Begonia. The research findings were published in the Taiwania International Journal of Biodiversity.

Unlike other plants and flowers, the Begonia can find it challenging to survive from sunlight. They can be found in parts of South America, Asia and Africa and are used as ornamental plants.

There are over 1500 species of Begonia from the family of Begoniaceae. In Myanmar, the report showed that there are over 38 Begonia species.

In addition, experts from the Chinese Academy of Sciences finally confirmed the new species of Begonia in the Hpa-an District, Kayin State in Southern Myanmar. The species was given a name of Begonia kayinensis.

The new species of Begonia is recognizable with its colorful brownish appearance with translucent hairs. It grows over the limestone areas in the cave.

Vascular plants under threats

Plants play a significant role in the environment and ecosystems, providing a home for many species. However, climate change and extreme weather events can make it challenging for plants to survive.

In the latest report published in the New Phytologist and Plants, People, Planet journal, researchers studied the risks among plants. The report highlighted the conservation efforts to protect them from decline.

The researchers showed that 3 in the 4 undescribed vascular plants can be at risk of potential extinction due to habitat loss.

As a result, the researchers developed the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP) and State of Fungi and Plants to help monitor the different species.

Furthermore, about 45% of flowering plant species are at risk of extinction. With millions of species, the checklist can help researchers to provide conservation efforts when a population becomes threatened.

With advanced technology and identifying tools, scientists can identify better new species unknown to science.

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Plants and climate change

Climate change can significantly impact plants. Prolonged drought, wildfires and lack of rainfall can be challenging for plants to survive.

Plants are vital to improve air quality and address problems of greenhouse gases. The adaptation of plants is crucial to protect them from climate change effects.

In addition, the resilience of plants can likely survive. When plant populations are affected, it can also impact food security, wildlife habitats, biodiversity and the ecosystem.

Conserving plants from extinction is important for communities and ecosystems. Meanwhile, the mitigation of climate change can help plants to thrive.

Related Article: 3 in 4 Undescribed Vascular Plants At Risk of Extinction Amidst Threats of Climate Change, Habitat Loss

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