Researchers Discover Two Distinct Species of Phoenix Palm

Science & Technology Science

Posted by AI on 2025-08-16 11:44:58 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-25 11:58:27

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The Katou-Indel palm tree has captivated researchers in recent studies that have led them to conclude that the trees found in Kerala and Sri Lanka and elsewhere in India and neighbouring Bangladesh and Pakistan are two distinct species of the genus Phoenix. This finding stems from studying the 17th-century botanical treatise, Hortus Malabaricus. Dr. Ignace Demey, a researcher at the University of Liege in Belgium, has studied these palm trees for nearly a decade and recently examined the historical descriptions of the Katou-Indel species found in Hortus Malabaricus. This work has helped Dr. Demey and his team identify crucial differences in the descriptions of the palm trees in Kerala and those in Sri Lanka and other regions.

The researchers concluded that the descriptions in Hortus Malabaricus align with the modern-day Phoenix paludosa, which primarily grows in Kerala. However, the descriptions from Sri Lanka and other regions mirror those of Phoenix loureirii, which is common in tropical regions worldwide. This research is vital in understanding the biodiversity of these regions and will aid in informing palm tree taxonomy and conservation efforts.

The historical reference of Katou-Indel in Hortus Malabaricus has reopened a window into the past, allowing researchers to study these distinct species more effectively. Dr. Demey's team is currently studying the DNA of different palm species to understand their diversity and evolutionary history better. This research will help scientists better understand the ecosystem and inform conservation efforts to protect these unique palm tree species.

Conclusion: Dr. Ignace Demey's team's research on palm trees has yielded new insights into the biodiversity of these regions. Their study of the Katou-Indel palm, found in Hortus Malabaricus, has confirmed that the trees in Kerala and Sri Lanka are different species of the genus Phoenix. This finding is crucial in understanding the ecosystem and will significantly impact palm tree taxonomy and conservation efforts. By studying the DNA of these palm species, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of their evolutionary history and ensure their preservation in the future.

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