The allure of untamed nature often carries with it the thrill of discovery, and the newest chapter in this saga unfolds with the revelation of a fascinating new species: Tharathum, also known by its scientific name, Sageraea multiovulata. Nestled within the ylang-ylang family (Annonaceae), this intriguing tree has emerged from the verdant depths of Surat Thani, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Botanical Garden Organisation (BGO).
With a name that should roll off your tongue, “Tharathum” delicately fuses elements of Thai language: “thara” for water and “thum” for tree, vividly encapsulating its essence. The find was celebrated in the illustrious pages of Volume 311 of the international journal Plant Systematics and Evolution, thus marking May 1st as a significant date in botanical chronicles. Spearheading this remarkable expedition is BGO’s seasoned taxonomist Chattida Wiya, who alongside an ensemble cast of botanical wizards including Tanawat Chaowasku from Chiang Mai University, and a team of intrepid researchers, pieced together the story of Tharathum.
Amidst the chorus of science and nature, Tharathum has secured a distinct place. Locally, it’s whispered about under the monikers of “Kramok Nam” and “Pi Tan,” adding to its mystique. As an arboreal marvel, it towers gracefully up to 18 meters, almost challenging fellow forest giants. Its florid inflorescences, draped in cream and light yellow hues, are wonders in themselves, giving way to fruit clusters that metamorphose from green to ripe beneath the theater of a rainy sky. This tree’s seed-filled bounty captivates with the beguiling promise of life, hiding an impressive number of ovules—19 to 20 per ovary—leaving its Annonaceae relatives far behind in the dust.
To stumble upon Tharathum’s single known habitat, you’ll find yourself traversing the banks of the Tapi River in Surat Thani’s Khian Sa district. Here, amidst seasonal inundations, the tree has quietly rooted itself; its branches splayed like welcoming arms. The cycle of life is dictated by the rhythm of the water, which caresses and cradles the fallen fruits, wedging them lovingly into Earth’s bosom as the wet season crescendos in October. Mother Nature, with her precise hand, ensures that the water orchestrates a gentle decomposition to herald the growth of new saplings.
Yet, this tale isn’t without its perils. With its existence currently verified within a single wetland oasis encircled by sprawling oil palm and rubber plantations, Tharathum’s status teeters on the brink of critically endangered. Despite its botanical prowess, it hangs perilously close to obscurity, with conservation efforts primarily shouldered by locals in Baan Bang Pra.
But there is light at the end of this dendrological tunnel. A bounty of its young shoots has made the journey to the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden in Chiang Mai, a generous contribution from Jirawit Srichaikhan, an ardent independent crusader for biodiversity. Here, under expert care, they flourish, sowing seeds of hope for future generations.
In essence, the saga of Tharathum interweaves the tapestry of nature and nurture, carrying with it the solemn pledge of survival against the odds. It represents an unyielding chapter in the struggle to safeguard our planet’s unreplicated wonders, a tree that might otherwise have been lost in the echoes of forgotten forests, now roots firmly planted in a loyal effort to expand its botanical lineage and legacy.
It’s amazing to see how new species are still being discovered. Tharathum is a testament to the hidden wonders of our planet.
I agree! It’s a reminder that we need to protect these habitats to ensure new species can be found and studied.
But aren’t these discoveries useless if they go extinct soon after due to deforestation?
These new botanical discoveries bring hope but also highlight the dire situation of plant conservation in Thailand.
Wow, 19 to 20 ovules per ovary is impressive! Shows how nature can surprise us.
More ovules means a better chance for the species to propogate, which is crucial for its survival given the threats.
Let’s hope those seeds find their way to safe ground and not just washed away.
Does anyone else think renaming it ‘Tharathum’ helps in conservation efforts? Seems like a gimmick to me.
Names do matter! It creates a narrative around the species that can engage people emotionally.
Exactly, name it something locals can relate to, and we might get more community safeguarding.
I’m glad to hear some saplings are being relocated to the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, but what about their natural habitat?
With so much focus on animal conservation, it’s refreshing to see plants getting their time in the spotlight.
True, but I think both flora and fauna need to be balanced; we tend to overlook plants too often.
Right, plants are crucial for ecosystems. They set the stage for numerous animal habitats.
We forget that plants are foundational to the life web. No plants, no animals.
It’s a shame things like palm and rubber plantations threaten this new discovery. Why don’t we focus on sustainable development?
It’s alarming that this tree exists in just one location! I hope Banda Pradesh adopts pro-mentorship of Tharathum.
Not just mentorship – we need actual protective measures in place or there will be nothing left to ‘mentorship’.
You’d think in the 21st century, countries like Thailand would do more to protect such unique species.
Governments can only do so much. Conservation is a collaborative effort involving NGOs, locals, and scientists.
Absolutely, everyone ought to pitch in, whether it’s supporting policies or donating to trustworthy causes.
This discovery is a huge step but hinges on us. If we don’t protect it, it’ll just join the extinction list.
Right? I’m astonished that deforestation isn’t taken more seriously.
The story of Tharathum is poetic, but without proper action, it’s just a romantic tale with a tragic ending.
Modern tech could help! Drone surveillance or satellite imaging might offer effective ways to manage plant conservation.
Logistics aside, what about climate change? That river won’t always be there if rain patterns shift.
My heart breaks learning it’s critically endangered, yet hopeful thanks to intensive local preservation efforts.
This revelation makes me want to study botany! Fascinating how detailed exploration leads to groundbreaking finds like Tharathum.
Let’s not turn this discovery into just another palm plank. True heritage lies in diversity, not market monoculture.