A new wildflower has become the first living species in the UK to be named after naturalist and TV presenter Sir David Attenborough.
The Attenborough's hawkweed (Hieracium attenboroughianum) was found a decade ago in the Brecon Beacons in south Wales but it took 10 years of study and comparison with related species to make sure it was new.
It is one of a group of closely-related plants belonging to the daisy family, related to and looking similar to dandelions, and experts believe it has evolved in the Brecon Beacons since the last ice age.
Attenborough's hawkweed brings the number of plants and animals bearing the name of the world-famous broadcaster to 11, although the little plant is the first living species in the UK to be named after him.
The naturalist who named the hawkweed said he chose it because Sir David had inspired him to study ecology as a teenager.
Dr Tim Rich, a plant taxonomist, said he named the plant after Sir David because he inspired him to study ecology when he was 17.
"This is a personal thank you for the years of fascination he has given me going to different places to search for new things."
Sir David said he was "thrilled" his name had been given to the new hawkweed species.
"Bestowing a name on a new species is surely one of the greatest biological compliments and I am truly grateful," he said.
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