A new species of Syzygium, named *Syzygium rubrocarpum*, has been identified in the biodiversity-rich region of Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. This discovery was made by researchers from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).
The identification process involved a detailed examination of living collections at the Bogor Botanical Gardens, which were originally collected from Kolaka in 1996. Through morphological analysis, scientists distinguished *Syzygium rubrocarpum* from other Syzygium species in the Wallacea region by its distinct round, bright red fruit, which inspired its scientific name meaning 'red-fruited'. Social media evidence of the local 'ruruhi' fruit being sold also supported its recognition as a unique species.
Previously, *Syzygium rubrocarpum* was often misidentified as *Syzygium polycephalum*, a species characterized by purplish-black fruits. This accurate classification underscores the importance of ongoing botanical research in Indonesia, a nation recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot. In mid-2025, the Ministry of Forestry reported the discovery of 19 new species of flora and fauna across the country, highlighting Indonesia's vast biological wealth.
Sulawesi, and Southeast Sulawesi in particular, is known for its significant number of endemic species and largely untouched forests. The discovery of *Syzygium rubrocarpum* reinforces the value of these natural environments and the need for their continued preservation. The *Syzygium* genus itself is highly diverse, with over 1200 species globally, contributing significantly to forest ecosystems and offering various economic benefits.