It has been said by “the person on the street” that humans have
already discovered all the species on Earth (1.8 million to
date). This is far from true. Each year hundreds of new
organisms are discovered. Selby scientists are conducting the
basic research of alpha-taxonomy as part of the Gardens mission:
To further the understanding and appreciation of plant life,
with emphasis on epiphytes, and to provide enjoyment for all who
visit the Gardens. The current issue of Selbyana includes 13 new
species of bromeliads, gesneriads, and orchids that have been
described by Selby scientists, research associates and other
botanists. The etymology or origin of species names are
categorized in four ways: descriptive, if the species is named
for some intrinsic character; personal, if the species is named
for a person or organization; habitat, if the species is named
for its unique habitat; and region, if the species is named for
its geographic region. These are the new species names with
their etymology and country of or