Rare Korean plant successfully re-establishes itself
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The National Ecological Institute of South Korea confirmed that a population of large-needle gentian, a plant classified as endangered II, has successfully adapted to a new location along the Jubangcheon stream in Cheongsong County.
Last August, the institute transplanted 200 of the plants to the area, which previously supported a wild population before development. After one year, the transplanted gentian naturally reproduced, increasing the population to over 500 plants.
The large-needle gentian is a perennial plant that grows in riverside gravel and moist sand in Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gangwon-do, and Ulleungdo provinces. While it is an important part of freshwater biodiversity, its numbers have declined due to river development destroying its habitat. The plants, which grow to between one and two meters tall, are characterized by long, dense hairs on their stems and leaves.
Researchers observed that most of the transplanted gentians bloomed with lavender flowers, attracting insects like honeybees and cabbage white butterflies. Some plants also spread roots beyond the protective fencing around the transplant site, indicating successful establishment. The institute continues to conduct restoration research and education programs for various endangered species.
