Phone App Uncovers Plant Species Once Thought Extinct
Recent advancements in citizen science have led to an exciting discovery. A plant species thought to be extinct for nearly six decades has been rediscovered, thanks to a smartphone photo uploaded by a horticulturalist.
Rediscovering the Ptilotus Senarius
Aaron Bean, while working on a private property in Queensland, captured an image of a slender shrub. This plant, later identified as Ptilotus Senarius, had not been documented since 1967. Bean uploaded the photo to iNaturalist, a prominent citizen science platform.
The Role of Citizen Science
Researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) then visited the Gilbert River region in Queensland. They confirmed Bean’s identification, marking a significant moment for biodiversity studies.
- Species Name: Ptilotus Senarius
- Last Seen: 1967
- Location of Rediscovery: Gilbert River region, Queensland
- Platform Used: iNaturalist
- Date of Plant Discovery: 2025
According to Thomas Mesaglio from UNSW’s School of Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, this rediscovery underscores the essential role citizen science plays in ecological research. Platforms like iNaturalist empower individuals to contribute valuable data from difficult-to-access locations, such as remote areas or private properties.
Importance of Collaborative Efforts
Mesaglio emphasized the significance of these rediscoveries. They provide opportunities for targeted surveys and long-term monitoring of plant and animal species. Understanding their distribution is crucial for effective conservation efforts.
iNaturalist, a free and accessible website, has significantly impacted the capturing and identification of biodiversity. As of June 2025, the platform boasts a community that has identified species from over 250 million images worldwide. This vast network of citizen scientists continues to enhance our understanding of global flora and fauna.
The rediscovery of Ptilotus Senarius exemplifies how everyday actions can lead to notable scientific breakthroughs. With technology bridging the gap between amateurs and professionals, the future of biodiversity research looks promising.
