Ancient and 'Sterile' Plant Population Found, But Its Location Remains a Secret

A remarkable discovery in the ancient landscapes of Tasmania has brought renewed hope for the survival of the critically endangered King's lomatia (Lomatia tasmanica). Scientists have confirmed the existence of a second population of this unique clonal plant, a finding that has been kept under wraps to ensure its utmost protection. This elusive species, previously known from only one location, represents a living link to a distant past, with fossil evidence dating back over 43,000 years.

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There's always a feeling that there probably was another population out there, but it was going to be awfully hard to find.

The decision to withhold the precise location and the identities of the discoverers is a deliberate and necessary measure by Tasmania's Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE). King's lomatia faces significant threats, primarily from a soil-borne pathogen, Phytophthora cinnamomi, which devastates plant roots. Furthermore, the plant's vulnerability to fire and the risk of disease transmission through human contact necessitate stringent biosecurity protocols. Keeping the population secret is paramount to preventing accidental introduction of pathogens or other disturbances that could prove catastrophic.

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Like you and me, we both have two sets of chromosomes in our DNA, but this one has three. And that means that it can't actually reproduce sexually.

From the perspective of ABC Australia, this discovery is a significant scientific event, highlighting the unique biodiversity of Tasmania and the ongoing efforts to conserve its fragile ecosystems. Professor Greg Jordan, a key figure in the study of King's lomatia, expressed his long-held belief that another population likely existed, making this confirmation particularly gratifying. The plant's unusual genetic makeup—possessing three sets of chromosomes instead of the usual two—renders it incapable of sexual reproduction, relying instead on vegetative propagation to survive for millennia. This asexual reproduction means every individual plant is a genetic clone of the original ancestor.

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So if we have people cramping around in these areas, it's just a really stupid risk of being killed by love.

This story resonates deeply within Australia, particularly in Tasmania, where conservation efforts are a matter of significant public interest. The discovery underscores the importance of protecting even seemingly inconspicuous species, as they hold invaluable scientific and ecological significance. While the secrecy surrounding the location might seem unusual to an international audience, for those invested in conservation, it is a pragmatic approach to safeguarding a species that has miraculously endured for thousands of years. The efforts by local nurseries, like Plants of Tasmania, to propagate the species under strict permits, further emphasize the collective commitment to ensuring King's lomatia's survival for future generations.

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It's very special. It's found nowhere else in the world, it can't produce any seed, it's difficu