Message #171059

[Galathean]

How scientists found the unknown forest

Scientists based at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew stumbled across the existence of Mount Mabu after looking at Google Earth internet maps in 2005, in the hope of finding a site for a conservation project.

Conservationist Julian Bayliss visited the area soon afterwards and saw satellite photos of a large, unexplored forest. In late 2008, an expedition hiked into it and was confronted with a treasure trove of new species.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/dec/21/mount-mabu-mozambique-jonathan-timberlake