PACSOA conservation project: Tahina spectabilis

Tahina spectabilis

Unknown to science until 2007, discovered by Xavier Metz and his family whilst out for a stroll!!! Later described in 2008 by Dr John Dransfield (former Head of Research, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew). Tahina spectabilis belongs to a monotypic genus (Chuniophoeniceae tribe) endemic to the Analalava district of Northwestern Madagascar, found amongst gentle rolling hills and flatlands subjected to seasonal flooding. It is exceptionally rare and critically endangered with less than 100 individuals known on the island. Habitat loss, limited population, and restricted range pose the greatest threats, with small scale impacts having the potential to cause catastrophic consequences.

Named after Anne-Tahina Metz (daughter of Xavier Metz), Tahina spectabilis is a palm of gigantic proportions (visible in satellite imagery), growing up to 20 m in height with leaves over 5 m diameter. Thought to live up to 50 years before producing an impressive terminal inflorescence and huge quantities of fruit prior to subsequent death.

Seed was made available 2008/2009 via Dr John Dransfield and Tobias Spanner (https://www.rarepalmseeds.com/). All specimens that exist in Australia today derived from that single batch of seed. Tahina spectabilis is now CITES listed.

Project

The Palm and Cycad Society of Australia (PACSOA) is engaged in a project to save 2 x Tahina spectabilis from an uncertain future. The current owners are selling up their Darwin property and have offered to donate the palms to Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mt. Coot-tha.

PACSOA met with Dale Arvidsson (Curator, Brisbane Botanic Gardens) on 6th March 2024 to discuss the proposal. The meeting was extremely positive with a clear understanding that this is a major conservation effort. Dale suggested planting sites by the visitor centre main entrance and central to the African/Madagascan section, both prominent locations.

Once established at Mt. Coot-tha, the palms will be publicised through National media and Worldwide via the International Palm Society. Informative signage will also be erected next to the visitor centre Tahina spectabilis.

Total cost for relocating the palms is $21, 000 AUD, of which $10, 000 AUD has been raised to date. To facilitate future conservation projects, PACSOA is seeking your help towards the outstanding $11, 000 AUD. Any donation, however small is most welcome.

Thank you for time in reading this and any support you might be able to give.