RRI.CO.ID, Cibinong – Velvet apple (Diospyros blancoi), also commonly known as bisbul or velvet persimmon, is a tropical fruit celebrated for its "velvet" skin and immense health benefits. While already known as a nutritional powerhouse and a conservation concern, a research team collaborating with National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) discovered a new subspecies for the species in Papua.

On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, BRIN released a report about a newly discovered velvet apple subspecies. The finding significantly expands the known distribution of the species within the Malesian botanical area.

Irvan Fadli Wanda, a researcher from BRIN’s Research Center for Biosystematics and Evolution, along with a collaborative team, identified a new subspecies of Diospyros blancoi in Papua. This discovery marks the first official record of the species in the region.

The team utilized a combination of phenetic and phylogenetic approaches. The key differences in the Papua subspecies is higher seed count, wedge-shaped seeds, and lower hair density on the fruit surface.

The researchers employed molecular DNA markers, specifically the matK and psbA-trnH genes. The phylogenetic analysis proved that the Papua population forms a genetically distinct group.

"The combination of morphological and molecular data provides strong evidence that the Papua population follows a distinct evolutionary path, justifying its status as a new subspecies," Irvan from BRIN’s official statement stated.

Long valued in traditional medicine and modern nutrition, velvet apple fruit is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. It is widely praised for its ability to support heart health, boost the immune system, and improve skin vitality.

However, its presence in the wild has been under threat. Although native to the Philippines, parts of Indonesia, and the Malay Peninsula, it has faced extinction due to the exploitation of its high-quality timber.

This scarcity has made recent scientific breakthroughs regarding its biodiversity even more critical for conservationists. Researchers emphasize the urgency of protecting remaining populations to prevent further loss.