Genetic analysis reveals new species of endangered baobab tree in Madagascar
Madison researchers recognize a new species of baobab tree, Adansonia bozy, unique to Madagascar, according to a study published in the journal Taxon. Previously, members of A. bozy were classified within a different species of Malagasy baobab, Adansonia za.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have identified a new species of baobab tree, Adansonia bozy, unique to Madagascar. Previously, members of A. bozy were classified within a different species of Malagasy baobab, Adansonia za. This discovery was made through careful genetic analysis, which revealed that the northern populations of A. za are more closely related to other northern Malagasy baobab species.
The identification of A. bozy could have implications for conservation efforts for the endangered trees. Baobabs are found in Australia, continental Africa, and Madagascar, and there were previously eight recognized species of baobabs. Lead author Nisa Karimi notes that it's surprising to still be answering basic biological questions about baobabs, such as how many species actually exist on the landscape.
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