New 'flesh-eating' pitcher plant tops Australian species discovery

by Rich Bowden - Sep 7 2009, 00:14

A report released by WWF-Australia to coincide with National Threatened Species Day on September 7 has said over 1,300 new plant and animal species have been discovered in Australia over the past decade.

The new listed species included a "flesh-eating" plant, one of the world's most venomous snakes and a frog that has the ability to change colour, said the Australia's Hidden Treasures study .

WWF-Australia said in a statement that the discoveries underlined the amazing diversity of flora and fauna discovered in Australia over the past ten years and that science continues to uncover new species.

"The extent of Australia's rich biodiversity is astounding, to the point where science is regularly being used to describe new species," said Michael Roache, Threatened Species Program Manager, WWF-Australia.

"This report shows that we have discovered an average of at least two new species a week every year for the past 10 years."

"Flesh-eating" pitcher plant

Leading the discoveries in terms of obscurity is the Nepenthes tenax, more commonly know as the "flesh-eating" pitcher plant, which was discovered in Queensland's northern Cape York in 2006. The plant is a giant compared to others of its genre said the report, attaining a maximum height of 100cm compared to others which grow to a height of 15 cm.

Scientists say the plant is the country’s second endemic species of its kind and believe it is capable of consuming small rats, mice, lizards and even birds.

The lowland pitcher plant is the third Nepenthes species recorded in Australia, and is native to northern Queensland, said the report.

However the numbers of new species discovered over the last decade could represent only a tiny fraction of the species still to be found, said Mr Roache.

"Located across all Australian states, these new finds could represent just a fraction of new species yet to be discovered," he said. "There may be many more thousands of new plants and animals in Australia that await discovery."

Since its beginnings in 1978, WWF-Australia has used science and scientific analysis as the basis for its work on environmental issues. It combines this analysis with partnerships with individuals, communities, indigenous groups, landholders, farmers, industry and many levels of government to further its environmental aims.

 

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