New Epiphytic Plant Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

New Epiphytic Plant Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

Akif Wani | November 5, 2023 | 11:51 AM IST | India, Science & Technology | Follow on Google News

New Epiphytic Plant Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

New Epiphytic Plant Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

Scientists from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have made an exciting discovery in the Pakke-Kessang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Collaborating with researchers from prestigious international institutes, they have identified and described a new species of epiphytic plant, Lysionotus namchoomii, in a report published in the peer-reviewed journal, Turczaninowia.

The genus Lysionotus, native to the Himalayas, Japan, and Indo-China, encompasses numerous species, with about 50% being endemic. These plants are primarily epiphytic, lithophytic, or terrestrial evergreen subshrubs, and the newly discovered species boasts thick leaves and captivating purple flowers. What sets this plant apart is its epiphytic nature, where it grows on other plants, a characteristic often found in tropical and subtropical forests.

A Tribute to a Social Reformer: Lysionotus namchoomii

This remarkable new species was named in honor of the late Chau Phunkyoo Nomchoon, a prominent social reformer from the Khapti community in Arunachal Pradesh. Mr. Nomchoon, a dedicated nature lover, also played a vital role in advancing education and healthcare within his community. Specimens of Lysionotus namchoomii were found at two distinct locations, with a small population of 60-100 individuals. However, the conservation status of this unique species is provisionally categorized as ‘Critically Endangered’ according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, owing to its limited population and habitat.

Strobilanthes sunhangii: A New Addition to India’s Flora

In another significant development, the researchers also added another plant species to India’s flora – Strobilanthes sunhangii, a member of the Acanthaceae family. This species, previously known from Medog county in Tibet, China, was recently discovered in the same Pakke-Kesang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Thriving in moist evergreen forests at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 meters, this terrestrial shrub can grow up to two meters in height and produces beautiful white flowers.

Dr. Krishna Chowlu, the only female scientist at BSI hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, emphasized the region’s rich biodiversity. Over the years, several new plant discoveries have been made in the state, and she pointed out that there are still unexplored areas like the Pakke-Kesang district that hold the potential for even more botanical revelations.

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Akif Wani