Noteworthy Discoveries

In March, FNAI botanists helped local plant enthusiasts document one of the largest (~4000 plants) and healthiest populations of Godfrey’s butterwort (Pinguicula ionantha), a rare endemic plant, listed as endangered by the State of Florida and Threatened by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.  FNAI biologists mapped the extent of the population, collected data to characterize the habitat, and will annually monitor this newly discovered occurrence in the Apalachicola National Forest.  Godfrey’s butterwort is a carnivorous plant which uses its glandular, sticky leaves to catch and digest insects.

Godfrey's butterwort (Pinguicula ionantha).   Photo by Amy Jenkins