Reserve survey finds unusual plant diversity at risk

What the study found: The baseline survey found previously unrecognized plant diversity in the Ngezi–Vumawimbi Forest Reserve on Pemba Island, including species that are likely new to science and are still under study. The researchers also confirmed endemic and threatened plant species, as well as plant species not previously reported from Pemba Island.

Why the authors say this matters: The authors state that one of the most plant-rich areas is planned for development as a new tourist resort. They say this would replace most of the Vumawimbi evergreen coastal forest, which they describe as a unique forest type in continental Africa dominated by Intsia bijuga.

What the researchers tested: In 2024, the team worked with the Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture, Zanzibar, to conduct a baseline biodiversity survey of animal and plant communities in the reserve. The abstract also notes that they confirmed a small population of blue duiker (Philantomba monticola), which is under threat from poaching.

What worked and what didn't: The survey successfully documented endemic and threatened plant species, plant species newly reported for Pemba Island, and a small blue duiker population. It also revealed plant diversity that had not been recognized before. The abstract does not report negative experimental results, but it does state that the blue duiker population is threatened by poaching and that a biodiverse area is designated for development.

What to keep in mind: The abstract describes preliminary results from a baseline survey, and it says that some suspected new species are still under study. It does not provide counts, detailed methods, or the full scope of the survey in the available summary.

Key points

• The reserve contains previously unrecognized plant diversity, including species likely new to science.
• The survey confirmed endemic and threatened plant species and species not previously reported on Pemba Island.
• A small population of blue duiker (Philantomba monticola) was confirmed and is under threat from poaching.
• One of the most plant-rich areas is designated for a new tourist resort.
• The authors say the planned development would replace most of the Vumawimbi evergreen coastal forest.