New plant species discovery in Thailand increases excitement

Bangkok: New discoveries always motivate people of all walks of life. An exciting breakthrough has taken place in the world of botany; four new species of the flowering plant Microchirita have been discovered in Thailand. One of these species, Microchirita simia, stands out for its flowers that look like a monkey’s face. Local people called it “Yad Vanom Pak” or “monkey face dewdrop.” This exclusive plant isn’t found everywhere; it can be seen only in Lopburi’s Muang district.

The discovery, led by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP), was recently published in the Forest Bulletin (Botany) of Thailand. Director-General Mr. Atthapol Charoenchansa said the four species were found on the limestone mountains in Saraburi, Rayong, and Lopburi.

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In addition to Microchirita simia, the team discovered Microchirita radiata, with radially arranged flowers, found in southern Thailand; Microchirita puglisiae, known for its long, narrow leaves, discovered in the north; and Microchirita orathaiae, named after illustrator Orathai Kerdkaew, in Khao Chamao district of Rayong province.

The discoveries are part of the Flora of Thailand project and were verified by Dr. David Middleton, a specialist in the Gesneriaceae family. These findings highlight Thailand’s rich biodiversity and confirm the country as a key center for Microchirita plants, which are also found across parts of Asia.