Selçuk University Scientists Discover Four New Plant Species in Central Taurus Mountains

A new study led by Prof. Dr. Kuddisi Ertuğrul from the Department of Biology at Selçuk University’s Faculty of Science, supported by TUBITAK, has led to the discovery and scientific classification of four previously unknown aethionema species in the Central Taurus Mountains.

Extensive field research conducted across 45 provinces in Türkiye resulted in the collection of approximately 1,500 plant samples. In addition, nearly 2,500 specimens were examined in detail through both national and international herbarium collections. The study combined morphological, taxonomic, seed and pollen analyses with molecular and chromosomal research, ultimately confirming that the four species were new to science. The findings were published in the internationally recognized journal Plants.

Prof. Dr. Ertuğrul noted that the research process involved comprehensive and multidisciplinary analysis, bringing together various scientific approaches to reach the final conclusions. The research team also included Prof. Dr. Tuna Uysal, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Meryem Bozkurt, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emrah Şirin, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakkı Demirelma, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burcu Yılmaz Çıtak.

The naming of the new species followed different criteria, with some named after the locations where they were found and others dedicated to individuals who contributed to the project. One species was named “Aethionema Kadriye Sultan” in honor of Prof. Dr. Ertuğrul’s wife, who provided significant support throughout the research process. Another species was named “Aethionema Uysali” after a teacher and nature photographer who captured and shared the first image of the plant. Additional species were named “Aethionema Beyşehirense,” discovered in Konya’s Beyşehir district, and “Aethionema Ermenekense,” collected from Göktepe Plateau in Ermenek, Karaman, introducing them to the scientific community.