In the following interview, Associate Professor at the Department of Biology of the School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the Mongolian National University of Education (MNUE) Dr. V.Gundegmaa delved into her research. She has made a significant contribution to botanical science with the discovery of a new plant species. Her findings were published in the esteemed international scientific journal Phytotaxa. Initiating her research in 2017, Dr. V.Gundegmaa identified and described a previously undocumented species, which she named Sanchir’s Gichgene (Potentilla sancziri) in honor of her mentor Dr. Ch.Sanchir, a distinguished Doctor of Biological Sciences. 

The plant is predominantly found in the mountainous regions of Kharkhiraa and Turgen in Uvs Province, as well as Munkhkhairkhan in Khovd Province. Given its habitat in high-altitude environments, the study demanded considerable dedication and rigorous fieldwork. Dr. V.Gundegmaa’s discovery not only enriches the botanical knowledge of Mongolia but also underscores the importance of continued research in the region’s unique and diverse ecosystems.

What is the significance of conducting a detailed study on this plant? Why did you start your research? 

I specialize in the study of Mongolian Potentilla plants and defended my Ph.D. in biology with research focused on this genus. Potentilla species are found in various climatic and phytogeographic zones worldwide, ranging from sea level to high mountain sedges. However, they are rarely found in extremely dry desert regions. These species play an important role in the vegetation of different regions and ecological zones, from high mountains to low mountains and montane hills. In Mongolia, 79 species of Potentilla have been documented.

The habitat of the newly discovered Potentilla sancziri is particularly intriguing. It grows at the boundary of permafrost or directly on permafrost, which initially attracted attention. Additionally, its external characteristics indicate adaptation to waterlogged conditions. Macroscopically, it closely resembles the white-flowered Potentilla. However, upon closer examination, significant differences were observed in the basal leaf margin and the hairiness of the upper surface of the leaves. For example, the hairs on the upper surface of the leaves of the white-flowered Potentilla are simple and silky. In contrast, the upper surface of the newly discovered species exhibits a web-like structure, with no clear distinction between where the hairs begin and end. Furthermore, differences are evident in the texture of the plant’s seeds and the structure of its columnar seedbed.

In the process of confirming whether a plant is a new biological species, a variety of studies and analyses are conducted, including morphological, ecological and genetic evaluations. Were there any particularly interesting or unexpected findings during this research?

Researchers have identified approximately 600 species of Potentilla worldwide. When analyzing geographical distribution and growth environments, or key criteria for distinguishing species, we found that what were initially thought to be similar species exhibited distinct differences. Very few Potentilla species grow on permafrost, moss-free permafrost, and moraines, all of which I am familiar with.

To accurately classify the newly discovered species, we conducted a comprehensive study of its geographical distribution, growth environment and external morphological morphometry. The findings strongly suggested that this was a previously undocumented species, prompting us to carry out a series of confirmatory studies. To validate our hypothesis, we performed a genetic analysis of leaf chloroplasts in collaboration with researcher at the Department of Biology at MNUE Dr. G.Onolragchaa. The genetic study revealed key differences between the newly discovered species and the snow-white cinquefoil (Potentilla nivea) across multiple genetic sequences. Using this genetic data, we then conducted a divergence study to determine the evolutionary timeline of the species. Since certain segments of DNA mutate at a consistent rate, they can be used as molecular clocks to estimate the timing of evolutionary events. 

Our findings indicate that the Potentilla lineage dates back approximately 20.29 million years. The evolutionary development of each species varies, with the newly discovered species emerging around 7.8 million years ago and the snow-white cinquefoil appearing more recently, at approximately 4.5 million years ago. These results confirm that the newly identified Potentilla species is of ancient origin. 

Field research in botany requires keen observation skills. As our senior researchers emphasize, nature itself is the best teacher - a principle that is invaluable for young researchers. It is essential to closely observe geographical conditions, as plant composition differs across ecosystems. For instance, taiga and forest plants exhibit distinct characteristics, just as steppe vegetation differs from that of desert environments. Each species thrives within its own unique habitat, reinforcing the importance of careful ecological study.

The research was primarily conducted in the Khovd and Uvs provinces, regions known for their mountainous and snow-covered landscapes. Since the plant is said to thrive in snowy mountains, it appears that this species is widespread across the western region of Mongolia, right?

Geographical features play a crucial role in the emergence and distribution of plant species. In Mongolia, this influence is particularly evident. Of the approximately 3,100 recorded species of higher plants, nearly 1,600 are found in the Mongolian Altai region. This region’s diverse topography, climate and ecological conditions have contributed to its rich botanical diversity, making it a significant center for plant evolution and endemism.

How do you plan to continue your research on this plant?

I am conducting research in plant taxonomy, focusing on high-altitude plants and exotic species in Mongolia. In this era of irreversible climate change, studying high-altitude plants is of critical importance, as these species are particularly vulnerable to environmental shifts.

Our next research objective is to study the white mountain flower, a symbol of eternal love, across Mongolia. Preliminary findings from this study have already yielded intriguing results, and genetic analysis is currently underway. This research will provide valuable insights into the evolutionary history, adaptation mechanisms and conservation needs of this remarkable species.

How many new species have Mongolian botanists discovered to date? The Potentilla sancziri is the second most recently discovered plant species.

The foundation of scientific research in Mongolia dates back to 1921, when the first scientific organization was established. Since then, numerous research teams in the field of natural sciences have contributed to the collection, processing and publication of plant specimens in various scientific works. The results of botanical research conducted in Mongolia were first published in 1925, marking the beginning of national botanists documenting plant species.

Many distinguished researchers have played a crucial role in advancing plant taxonomy in Mongolia. My mentor, Dr. Ch.Sanchir, along with esteemed scholars such as Academician Dr. N.Ulziikhutag, Dr. D.Ganbold, and Dr. Sh.Daariimaa of the MNUE, have made significant contributions to this field. Dr. Ch.Sanchir alone has discovered 22 new plant species, an extraordinary achievement. Additionally, Academician N.Ulziikhutag conducted extensive research on the legume family and identified numerous new species. Their work has been instrumental in expanding our understanding of Mongolia’s botanical diversity, and I hope their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of researchers.

I strive to honor the knowledge and values they have imparted to me by conducting my own research with integrity and dedication. In 2018, I had the privilege of discovering a new plant species in the Khangai Mountains of Mongolia, which I formally registered in science under my father’s name. This achievement reinforces my commitment to the field of plant taxonomy and the ongoing exploration of Mongolia’s rich flora.