Report Rare "Tharathum" Tree Species Discovered in South Thailand's Wetlands

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Pictures courtesy of Botanical Garden Organisation Thailand Facebook

 

In a significant botanical breakthrough, Thai researchers have discovered a rare tree species in the wetlands of Surat Thani province. Named "Tharathum"—a fusion of the Thai words for water (thara) and tree (tham)—this unique plant was found near the flood-prone Tapi River in Khian Sa district.

 

The discovery was led by Dr. Chatthida Wiya, a plant taxonomist with the Botanical Garden Organisation, alongside universities and national departments such as the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. Their findings were published in the journal Plant Systematics and Evolution on May 1.

 

Scientifically designated as Sageraea multiovulata Wiya, Sinbumr. & Chaowasku, this tree belongs to the Annonaceae family, notable for its remarkable height of up to 18 meters and distinctive cream to pale yellow flowers with large yellowish-green fruits.

 

The Tharathum stands out due to its reproductive prowess, boasting the highest ovule count recorded in its genus, with each ovary containing between 19 and 20 ovules, compared to the typical five to twelve. This adaptation helps the tree survive and propagate in its challenging environment, spending significant periods submerged in floodwater and timing fruit ripening with the October flood season to aid seed dispersal.

 

Despite its extraordinary characteristics, the Tharathum is already classified as "Critically Endangered," confined to a single wetland area now surrounded by rubber and oil palm plantations. Efforts are underway to conserve the species, including cultivating saplings at the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden in Chiang Mai as part of a long-term protection strategy.

 

Currently, Tharathum holds no known commercial value, but researchers remain hopeful about its undiscovered potential. Dr. Chatthida expressed optimism, noting that further research could uncover valuable compounds, bolstering sustainable conservation efforts through economic incentives. The discovery of Tharathum highlights the urgent need for environmental protection and the hidden treasures within Thailand's rich biodiversity.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-22