It might seem that biologists have already canvassed every bit of our planet. In reality, by tapping the latest genetic and molecular techniques they are identifying new species at an unprecedented pace. To draw attention to this fast-growing catalog of biodiversity, the Arizona State University International Institute for Species Exploration created a top 10 list of the most amazing species discovered in 2009, including:
Tahina spectabilis: A palm native to northwest Madagascar, the species is so huge that single trees can be spotted via Google Earth. The plant’s trunk grows to 60 feet high and its leaves to more than 15 feet across. After 30 to 50 years, the palm produces hundreds of flowers that drain its nutrients completely, causing it to die in a few months. Fewer than 100 specimens have been found, but the plant is now being cultivated.
Phobaeticus chani: The world’s longest stick insect, measuring two ...
