CFE/TERRA researcher João Farminhão is interviewed on Antena 1 about the discovery of a new species of plant endemic to the cliffs of Gargalo do Tejo
João Farminhão, a researcher at the Center for Functional Ecology (CFE) and member of the TERRA Associate Laboratory, was recently interviewed on Antena 1’s Duas de Prosa program, where he announced the discovery of a new endemic plant species identified on the cliffs of Gargalo do Tejo.
During the conversation, the researcher explained the process that led to the identification of Linaria almadensis, a species unique in the world, whose occurrence is restricted exclusively to the coastal cliffs of Almada, opposite Lisbon. Despite its proximity to urban and research centers, this plant remained unrecognized as a distinct species for over a century.
Although specimens were first collected in 1843, it was only recently, as part of an in-depth taxonomic review, that it was possible to confirm that this was a separate species. The holotype supporting the scientific description is preserved in the Herbarium of the University of Coimbra, the largest botanical collection in the country.
In the interview, João Farminhão pointed out that the material was collected “at the foot of Cristo-Rei and in front of the Jerónimos Monastery,” occurring exclusively on sandy walls and terraces near limestone rocks. The new species differs from others with which it was often confused — Linaria supina and Linaria polygalifolia — through specific morphological characteristics, namely the shape of the leaves and the coloration of the corolla.
One of the central points of the interview was the call for conservation. It is estimated that there are only a few dozen individuals of Linaria almadensis, which places the species in a situation of extreme vulnerability. The researcher emphasized the urgency of protective measures, given the urban and tourist pressure on the area where it occurs.
Participation in the Antena 1 program not only allowed this scientific discovery to be shared with the general public, but also reinforced the importance of national research in identifying and protecting biodiversity. The case shows that, even in relatively well-studied groups such as vascular plants, there is still a significant lack of knowledge about Portuguese flora.
Listen to the full interview on Antena 1: rtp.pt/play/p15569/e908077/duas-de-prosa (in Portuguese)
More details about the discovery on the TERRA website: labterra.pt/nova-especie-descoberta-por-joao-farminhao-cfe-terra-em-frente-a-cidade-de-lisboa
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