29 New Flora Species in Indonesia Successfully Described Within a Year
Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has recorded that between 2025 and early 2026, at least 29 new species of Indonesian flora were successfully described scientifically by BRIN researchers and their collaborators.
The various new species originate from diverse plant groups, ranging from Rafflesia, Begonia, Homalomena, Rhododendron, Nepenthes, to orchids (Orchidaceae) discovered across various regions of Indonesia.
This discovery demonstrates that Indonesia still possesses enormous biodiversity potential that remains largely unexplored.
BRIN Director Arif Satria emphasised that the process of discovering new species requires lengthy and complex scientific work. This begins with expeditions to forest areas and remote regions, specimen collection, morphological and molecular analysis, and publication in international journals as global scientific recognition.
“The discovery of new species does not happen instantly. It requires the dedication of researchers, demanding fieldwork, and sustained research support. Therefore, strengthening the capacity of taxonomic science and biodiversity exploration must be a shared concern,” said Arif.
According to Arif, the challenge of biodiversity conservation has become increasingly complex due to land use changes, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources. These conditions cause many species to face extinction even before being scientifically identified.
“Therefore, biodiversity research must become part of the national strategic agenda. We are not only talking about plant conservation, but also about preserving knowledge sources, ecosystem resilience, and the future of future generations,” he asserted.
Through the Exposing New Species – Flora initiative, BRIN hopes that society will become increasingly familiar with Indonesia’s floral wealth whilst developing collective awareness to protect biodiversity as an invaluable national asset.
This activity also demonstrates that Indonesia’s biodiversity research continues to develop and contributes significantly to global scientific knowledge.
It is known that throughout the period from 1967 to 2025, BRIN researchers together with national and international partners have successfully discovered 1,583 new species, with 712 of them being flora.