WILLEMSTAD – A rare species of globe cactus, previously undocumented on the island, was discovered during the first-ever edition of the City Nature Challenge held on Curaçao. The find is considered one of the most remarkable outcomes of the four-day biodiversity event, which mobilized hundreds of residents to document the island’s natural life. 

Between April 25 and 28, participants used the free iNaturalist app to record over 10,000 observations, representing nearly 1,200 different species of plants, animals, and fungi. The results set a new biodiversity record for Curaçao. 

The initiative brought together people from all walks of life—schoolchildren, divers, hikers, and even government ministries. A total of thirteen schools took part in the citizen science project. The event was organized by Nadina Galle, Femi Meaux, and Cindy Eman. 

“The discovery of the globe cactus highlights the value of involving the public in documenting our island’s biodiversity,” the organizing team stated. 

The City Nature Challenge is a global movement that encourages people to observe and record local wildlife. The collected data contributes to scientific research and conservation efforts. After the resounding success of this first edition, Curaçao is already looking forward to hosting a second edition in 2026. 

Melocactus curvispinus (Photo credit: Linda van der Jagt)