Researchers from the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, have discovered a brand-new yeast species, the first of its kind in the world, from Phu Pha Thoep National Park, Mukdahan Province, Thailand.

Named Blastobotrys princeps sp. nov., the species carries the Thai name, "Yeast Chaofah Ying,", literally meaning the "Princess Yeast." The name was graciously granted to honor HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on the auspicious occasion of her 70th birthday anniversary, celebrating her lifelong dedication to taxonomy and biodiversity conservation in Thailand. Fittingly, the Latin epithet princeps means "first in rank, a leader, one of great distinction."

The research team collected 60 wild mushroom samples (genus Russula) from Phu Pha Thoep National Park and isolated 90 yeast strains living in association with them. Using molecular taxonomy to compare these strains against global databases, one strain, DMKU-TM03, stood out: its gene sequences didn't match any previously recorded species.

To confirm this finding, the team applied polyphasic taxonomy, combining genetic data, morphological characteristics, and physiological properties for a comprehensive analysis, ultimately confirming it as an entirely new species, never before recorded anywhere in the world.

The research team included Asst. Prof. Dr. Pannida Khunnamwong, Prof. Emeritus Dr. Savitree Limtong, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nantana Srisuk and master's student Panadda Nuanthaisong of Kasetsart University's Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, working with Dr. Baramee Sakolrak of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

This discovery adds a new chapter to Thailand's biodiversity knowledge and opens doors to exploring the potential of wild yeasts for agriculture, the food industry, and the growing bio-based economy — proof that even the world's smallest organisms, hidden in a national park's forest mushrooms, can hold big scientific significance.

A beautiful reminder that biodiversity discoveries are still happening right in our backyards — and Thailand's forests continue to reveal secrets waiting to be found.