Search for rare carnivorous plants in Daejeon wetlands launched with public appeal

Environmentalists in Daejeon are urgently seeking public assistance to find rare carnivorous plants that signal the health of local wetlands. The 'Isakgwibae' and 'Tanggibae,' members of the bladderwort family, have vanished from their original and transplanted locations in the Daejeon area, causing concern among conservationists.

These unique plants require a rare combination of constant moisture and sunlight, making their habitats scarce both in South Korea and globally. First discovered in Daejeon in 2007 during an environmental survey for a tunnel project, the plants were later moved to different locations. While some individuals bloomed until 2011, recent surveys by the Daejeon Environmental Movement Federation have failed to find them.

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The presence of these two carnivorous plants was considered a prime example of Wolpyeong Park's ecological value when they were first found in Daejeon 19 years ago. We are not concluding anything based solely on this survey's results and will continue to seek sightings with the public.

"The presence of these two carnivorous plants was considered a prime example of Wolpyeong Park's ecological value when they were first found in Daejeon 19 years ago," said Lee Gyeong-ho, secretary-general of the federation. "We are not concluding anything based solely on this survey's results and will continue to seek sightings with the public."

The federation is asking citizens to report any sightings of these plants in Daejeon's wetlands and streams, including Wolpyeong Park and the Gap River. Even past records, photos, or general location information are valuable. Collected information will be used to re-evaluate the distribution of these rare plants, and if confirmed, conservation plans will be developed in consultation with relevant authorities. "Even a small photo or tip can be a precious record for documenting and preserving Daejeon's biodiversity," Lee urged. "If you remember seeing a small flower on a walk or have related photos in your album, please report it."

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Even a small photo or tip can be a precious record for documenting and preserving Daejeon's biodiversity. If you remember seeing a small flower on a walk or have related photos in your album, please report it.