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 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, in collaboration with scientists from the Missouri Botanical Garden and Iowa State University, have identified a new species of baobab tree endemic to Madagascar. The newly recognized species, Adansonia bozy, was previously thought to be part of another Malagasy baobab species, Adansonia za.
Genetic analysis revealed that populations of A. za in the north are more closely related to other northern Malagasy baobab species. This discovery has implications for conservation efforts, as A. bozy may be endangered, potentially leading to a reclassification of the conservation status of A. za.
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