"Rare Underground Flowering Palm Species Unearthed in Borneo Stuns Scientists"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Phys.org
Researchers have discovered a rare palm species, Pinanga subterranea, in Borneo that flowers and fruits almost entirely underground. The plant, known to locals for its sweet and juicy fruit, had gone unnoticed by scientists until now. This discovery highlights the importance of collaborating with Indigenous communities and their knowledge of the landscape. The species is a unique case of geoflory and the first known example of its kind in the palm family. The researchers are still unraveling the mysteries surrounding this unusual plant, including its pollination mechanism. Up to half of the known palm species may be threatened with extinction.