Geel (Brussels Morning Newspaper): On September 25, students Elias Tibax and Sebastian Keersmaekers during an exploration of the Neerhelst nature reserve discovered the small nymphwort, a rare aquatic plant previously thought extinct in Belgium, Their find has attracted many visitors to the Bocholt-Herentals Canal.
On September 25, two students, Elias Tibax and Sebastian Keersmaekers, visited the Neerhelst nature reserve in Geel. Elias studies environmental management, while Sebastian is studying biology. They aimed to identify as many plant species as they could. During their exploration, they reached the Bocholt-Herentals Canal, a man-made waterway that goes through the natural area.
What rare plant did students discover in Geel’s Neerhelst nature reserve?
While exploring near the canal, Elias and Sebastian noticed a group of water plants that stood out against the flowing water. They were excited about the chance to discover something important.
While examining some plant remains pulled from the water, Elias and Sebastian discovered a strange plant they couldn’t identify. It looked similar to the large nymphwort they had seen before but was much smaller and had a different shape. After some research, they realized it was the small nymphwort, a rare aquatic plant in Belgium. The last confirmed sighting of this plant was in the late 1980s, after which it was believed to be extinct in the country.
It has been said that Elias and his friends were happy when they heard the good news. They found a rare plant and celebrated with high fives. The website shows that many people are visiting the canal to see the plant. Elias thinks it’s great that others can enjoy what they find, and he would like to see more rare plants if they are discovered.
