In an exciting new scientific discovery, Universidad Nacional de Colombia researchers supported by Fundación ProAves have identified a beautiful new species of orchid, Rasmussen Star Orchid Epidendrum rasmussenii, in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia.
This stunning discovery highlights the region’s incredible biodiversity and underscores the importance of conservation efforts in one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.
The new species, officially described in the scientific journal Phytotaxa, was named in honor of Nathan Jens Rasmussen, whose family has played a crucial role in supporting conservation initiatives to protect this orchid and a myriad of biodiversity restricted to cloud forest in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
“We are thrilled to support important discoveries like this one,” said Dr. Paul Salaman, President of Conservation Allies. “Rasmussen Star Orchid highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of Colombia and the critical need for sustained research and conservation efforts to protect the country’s endangered forests.”
The orchid was found within El Dorado ProAves Reserve, which is managed by Fundación ProAves with support from Conservation Allies. The reserve has long been a global stronghold for endemic and endangered species, providing a safe haven for Colombia’s rich flora and fauna. The discovery of the Rasmussen Star Orchid reinforces the importance of protecting these habitats from deforestation.
“This discovery would not have been possible without the invaluable support of Nathan Jens Rasmussen’s family and the support of Conservation Allies. It is not only a tribute to the beauty and complexity of our flora, but also a reflection of the urgency to conserve our natural ecosystems. The ProAves El Dorado Reserve continues to be a stronghold of wildlife and a refuge for biological diversity. Orchids, as a symbol of resilience and ecological richness, inspire us to redouble our efforts to safeguard our natural heritage for future generations.
Thank you for making it possible for science and conservation to continue flourishing in Colombia,” Cited by Kruzi Paloma Carrillo León, Executive Director of Fundación ProAves.
The newly identified orchid is distinguished by its striking red-carmin and yellow-green flowers. It is currently classified as an Endangered species due to its highly restricted location, emphasizing the urgency of preserving the forests it calls home.
“The Sierra Nevada, celebrated for its biological and cultural richness, high endemism, and unique geography, now unveils a new botanical gem. This discovery not only deepens our taxonomic understanding of orchids. But also underscores the urgent need to explore, study, and safeguard these extraordinary lands, which today face mounting threats,” Stated by researcher Miguel Ángel Gómez Riaño.
This finding was made possible through extensive fieldwork, scientific collaboration, and the dedication of conservationists working tirelessly to document and protect Colombia’s extraordinary biodiversity.
