Lost World" Discovered: Scientists Explore Indonesian Jungle

[Gokul43201]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/4688000.stm

An international team of scientists says it has found a "lost world" in the Indonesian jungle that is home to dozens of new animal and plant species.

"It's as close to the Garden of Eden as you're going to find on Earth," said Bruce Beehler, co-leader of the group.

...

On only the second day of the team's expedition, the amazed scientists watched as a male Berlepsch's bird of paradise performed a mating dance for an attending female in the field camp.

It was the first time a live male of the species had been observed by Western scientists, and proved that the Foja Mountains was the species' true home.

"This bird had been filed away and forgotten; it had been lost. To rediscover it was, for me, in some ways, more exciting than finding the honeyeater. I spent 20 years working on birds of paradise; they're pretty darn sexy beasts," Dr Beehler enthused.

...

A summary of the team's main discoveries:

* A new species of honeyeater, the first new bird species discovered on the island of New Guinea since 1939
* The formerly unknown breeding grounds of a "lost" bird of paradise - the six-wired bird of paradise (Parotia berlepschi)
* First photographs of the golden-fronted bowerbird displaying at its bower.
* A new large mammal for Indonesia, the golden-mantled tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus pulcherrimus)
* More than 20 new species of frogs, including a tiny microhylid frog less than 14mm long
* A series of previously undescribed plant species, including five new species of palms
* A remarkable white-flowered rhododendron with flower about 15cm across
* Four new butterfly species.

 

[hypatia]

oohhhhhhh ahhhhhhhh this is very cool! I hope to see more photos soon!

 

[ravenprp]

The discovery of a "lost world" in the Indonesian jungle is truly remarkable. This expedition has not only uncovered dozens of new animal and plant species, but also provided valuable insight into the biodiversity of this remote area. The fact that this region is being referred to as a modern-day Garden of Eden is a testament to the richness of its ecosystem.

The observation of a male Berlepsch's bird of paradise performing a mating dance is a significant find, as it confirms that this species is indeed native to the Foja Mountains and not just a specimen in a museum. It is also exciting to hear that this expedition has provided the first photographs of the golden-fronted bowerbird displaying at its bower.

The discovery of a new species of honeyeater, the first new bird species on the island of New Guinea in over 70 years, is a major contribution to the scientific community. The team's findings of a new large mammal, the golden-mantled tree kangaroo, and over 20 new species of frogs further emphasize the importance of preserving this area for future research and conservation efforts.

The fact that the team also discovered new plant species, including a rare white-flowered rhododendron and five new species of palms, highlights the need for continued exploration and study of this region. The discovery of four new butterfly species adds to the already impressive list of findings from this expedition.

Overall, this "lost world" in the Indonesian jungle has proven to be a treasure trove of new and exciting discoveries. It is a reminder of the vast and diverse natural world that still remains to be explored and protected. Kudos to the team of scientists for their dedication and hard work in uncovering this hidden gem.