ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar — Scientists have discovered a new species of baobab tree in Madagascar, bringing the total number of known baobab species on the island to seven. The research, published in August 2026 in the journal Taxon, identifies the new species as Adansonia bozy. It is found in the Sambirano Valley in the northwest of Madagascar and is classified as endangered. The region is known for producing large quantities of cash crops such as cocoa and vanilla, which may threaten the habitat of this newly discovered tree. Baobabs are large, iconic trees known for their massive trunks and long lifespans, often found in Africa and parts of Australia. In Madagascar, they have long been part of the local landscape, but this species had previously gone unnoticed. Researchers had been aware of subtle differences between some baobab species but were unable to distinguish Adansonia bozy from its close relative, A. za. The confusion was compounded by historical references to a possible species called A. alba Jum. & H. Perrier from the 19th century, which was never confirmed. The identification of Adansonia bozy was made possible through advanced genetic analysis. The research was led by Nisa Karimi, a scientist at the Missouri Botanical Garden, who worked with three other researchers from the universities of Wisconsin and Iowa State, as well as the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery. Their study involved detailed genetic comparisons that confirmed the distinctiveness of this new species after more than a century of uncertainty. Experts emphasize that further research is needed to understand how to best protect Adansonia bozy from threats such as habitat loss due to agriculture. The discovery highlights the importance of continued scientific exploration, especially in regions with high biodiversity and limited resources for conservation efforts.