Researchers confirm a previously unknown species of giant waterlily in Colombia after an initial discovery stemming from social media. Multiple outlets report that a photo shared on Instagram brought the plant to the attention of scientists, who then followed up with fieldwork to verify it as new to science.
Outlets describe how the confirmation process involved a short expedition to locate and document the plant in the rainforest, including last-minute changes to search plans. The waterlily’s leaves are unusually large—large enough that the plant can be spotted from space—an observation that helps explain how the species draws attention even from afar.
All sources agree the species is already assessed as critically endangered, highlighting that it is not just newly identified but also facing serious conservation risk. The reporting frames the discovery as a mix of chance and rapid scientific response, with researchers moving quickly to assess the plant and establish its status.
