EDITORIAL - Nature’s custodian

The Philippines is renowned for its rich biodiversity, and the discovery of a rare floral species reinforces this. Biologists from the University of the Philippines have discovered a flower that is said to be the smallest species of Rafflesia, the parasitic plant genus endemic to Southeast Asia that is prized for giant blooms that can grow up to 1.5 meters in diameter.

With an average diameter of only 9.73 centimeters, the Rafflesia consueloae is the smallest known species of the plant family. Rafflesias are not energetic bloomers, which makes the flowers even more precious even if they stink of rotten flesh. The new species has been found in the mountains of Nueva Ecija, near the Pantabangan-Carranglan watershed where a hydroelectric dam is located.

Although the new species appears to be thriving in its mountain habitat, it is classified as critically endangered. Its discovery and classification would help in its conservation. In the past decades, the Philippines has lost many endemic species, and there’s a long list of endangered flora and fauna. The business community, environment advocates and other sectors have assisted the government in conservation efforts.

Success has been reported in efforts to save wildlife such as the Philippine Eagle and tarsier from extinction. But efforts have been tougher in the case of other species due to the destruction of natural habitats through pollution, indiscriminate development and other human activities. Many insect species have disappeared, with fireflies now a rare sight even in the countryside.

Because of the attractive blooms, Rafflesias have a better chance of being saved from extinction. More effort is needed, however, to preserve fragile ecosystems and save many other endangered species. A land so blessed with Earth’s riches has a responsibility to nurture the gifts and fulfill its role as nature’s custodian.