Our planet Earth is a treasure-trove of life, brimming with a mesmerizing array of species that form the intricate tapestry of our ecosystems. Despite centuries of exploration and research, the vastness of Earth’s biodiversity remains largely uncharted, with estimates suggesting millions, or even billions, of species yet to be discovered and named.
Identifying new species is a complex endeavor, demanding a multifaceted approach that draws upon various scientific tools. Fortunately, advancements in science, particularly in molecular biology and systematic methods, have accelerated the pace of new species discoveries, unveiling a steady stream of these hidden gems. A compelling example is the recent discovery of Iris cangshanensis, a new plant species found in the Cangshan Mountains of Yunnan, China. This remarkable find not only enriches our understanding of Earth’s biodiversity but also highlights the crucial role of technological progress in biodiversity research.
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Source: Nordic Journal of Botany.
Image from a report in China Daily.
Initially, scientists were intrigued by the unique morphological features of this plant, hinting at its potential status as an undiscovered species. To substantiate their suspicions, they employed molecular systematics analysis, a powerful tool that delves into the genetic makeup of organisms. By extracting gene fragments from Iris cangshanensis and 114 related species, they constructed a phylogenetic tree, a roadmap of evolutionary relationships. The analysis revealed that Iris cangshanensis formed a distinct evolutionary clade, while also exhibiting a close genetic connection to Iris tectorum complex and Iris latistyla. In simpler terms, while Iris cangshanensis shared some genetic sequences with its close relatives, it also possessed significant genetic differences, firmly establishing it as a unique and independent new species.
The discovery of Iris cangshanensis serves as an exemplary case of the harmonious interplay between morphological analysis and molecular systematics analysis. Undoubtedly, as we strive to uncover more hidden species and unravel the mysteries of Earth’s evolutionary history, such systematic approaches and a diverse arsenal of research tools will prove increasingly indispensable.
Intriguingly, the relationship between “traditional” and “new technologies” is not always one of collaboration but sometimes one of competition for dominance. An intriguing example is the recent call by a group of scientists for modifications to the nomenclature rules related to DNA sequences, a topic that will be discussed at the upcoming International Botanical Congress (IBC) in Madrid, Spain, in July 2024.
Actually, We once conducted a questionnaire survey. The questionnaire survey, which asked “Do you support or oppose the modification of nomenclature rules related to DNA sequences?”, we received a total of 61 votes. Of these, 40 votes (65.57%) of “OceanWetlands” readers supported “updating the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants to the genomic era”. That’s very interesting.
A total of 61 votes were received on the question “Do you support or oppose changes to naming regulations related to DNA sequences?” Of these, 40 votes (65.57%) were cast by CBCGDF-OceanWetlands readers in favour of updating the International Code of Nomenclature for Algae, Mycorrhizae and Plants to the genome era. Image credit: CBCGDF-OceanWetlands
But I think, the trend is blending, which we can’t stop that. As we delve deeper into the unexplored realms of biodiversity, it is evident that the fusion of traditional methods and cutting-edge technologies will illuminate our path towards a comprehensive understanding of the extraordinary tapestry of life on Earth.
By Linda
Editor: Samantha
Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776
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