Newly Discovered Plant Species Named After DOrSU Coleopterist
A newly discovered species of Begonia from the lush forests of Eastern Mindanao has been named in honor of Dr. Milton Norman D. Medina, a leading researcher at Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) and head of its Tropical Genomics Laboratory.
The plant, now officially named Begonia medinae, was found in the municipality of Caraga, Davao Oriental, as part of a joint research effort by scientists from the Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica, and the National Museum of the Philippines. The species name commemorates Dr. Medina’s significant role in biodiversity research and conservation in the Philippines. He is also known as a co-founder of the Philippine Coleopterists Society Inc. (PCSI), a group devoted to the study and protection of beetles and their habitats.
During the same expedition, the research team also discovered another new species, Begonia dorisiae. Both species are endemic to the Eastern Mindanao Biodiversity Corridor (EMBC), a region globally recognized for its high levels of biodiversity and ecological significance. However, these discoveries also raise conservation concerns: B. dorisiae is proposed to be listed as Vulnerable due to its limited habitat range, while B. medinae is recommended for classification as Critically Endangered due to its extremely small population size and exposure to human-induced threats. These discoveries highlight not only the remarkable biodiversity of the EMBC but also the urgent need for its protection.
DOrSU has long been a champion of biodiversity conservation, particularly within Mindanao’s unique ecosystems. One of its flagship initiatives is the Philippine Coleoptera Expedition, a series of scientific explorations led by Dr. Medina and fellow researchers aimed at surveying and cataloging beetle diversity in underexplored habitats. These expeditions have not only expanded scientific knowledge but have also raised awareness of the importance of invertebrate conservation.
Dr. Medina’s recognition highlights his relentless dedication to advancing natural science research in the Philippines, representing a key milestone for DOrSU and the national scientific community. This research also emphasizes the vital role of global collaboration in preserving biodiversity and acts as an urgent call to protect these species from further threat.
