In a current discovery within the Munzur Valley of Tunceli, researchers from Ege University unveiled a subspecies of “bluebell” an endangered plant species.”
Lecturer Hasan Yıldırım, affiliate Ademi Fahri Pirhan, and doctoral scholar Tuğkan Özdöl launched a newfound plant species to the scientific neighborhood.
Yıldırım, chatting with Anadolu Agency (AA), revealed that the invention emerged throughout the framework of the “Turkish Bell Flowers Revision Project,” supported by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBITAK).
Following intensive analysis efforts, the crew recognized the plant as a brand new subspecies of the “oak bell” species, scientifically named Campanula quercetorum. Yıldırım, Pirhan and Özdöl co-authored an article on this groundbreaking discovering revealed within the scientific journal “Species and Habitats.”
The plant earned the scientific denomination “Campanula quercetorum” resulting from its dense flower construction, whereas its Turkish title, “Ovacık bell,” pays homage to the Ovacık area the place it thrives.
Yıldırım highlighted the distinct traits isolating the Ovacık bell from its predominant species. “This plant notably differs in terms of flower color, petal structure, and densely clustered flowers. It boasts a relatively restricted distribution. Worldwide, there are around 420 bellflower species, with our country holding significant importance, housing 133 identified bellflower species, 70 of which are exclusive, endemic species thriving solely within our country’s habitats.”
Underlining the Ovacık bell’s standing as an endemic species, Yıldırım emphasised its potential as a decorative plant. “As a team, we are actively cultivating these natural bellflowers, prevalent in our country’s landscapes. Soon, they will be introduced as cultivated plants, allowing greater accessibility to these species,” acknowledged Yıldırım.
With the addition of the Ovacık bell, the tally of plant species unveiled to the scientific realm has reached 70. Yıldırım affirmed the crew’s dedication to additional exploring and documenting Türkiye’s wealthy biodiversity, solidifying its place in scientific literature.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
