In a remarkable breakthrough, botanists from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have identified a new flowering plant species in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The plant, named Dicliptera srisailamica, was discovered in the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, a region celebrated for its biodiversity. The research, led by L. Rasingam from BSI’s Deccan Regional Centre, adds a significant species to India’s botanical wealth.
Taxonomy and Global Context
Dicliptera srisailamica belongs to the Acanthaceae family, a group of plants comprising 223 species worldwide. The genus Dicliptera is represented by 27 species in India, with eight endemic to the country. Of these, Andhra Pradesh alone is home to seven recorded species, showcasing the state’s ecological richness.
Distinct Characteristics of Dicliptera srisailamica
The plant displays several unique features that distinguish it from related species:
- Growth and Structure: Dicliptera srisailamica is an erect herb that can grow up to 90 cm in height. Its stems are four-angled and bear fine hairs during their early stages.
- Leaves: The ovate leaves have prominent veins and smooth margins, adding to the plant’s visual appeal.
- Flowers: The species produces small, pink, bi-lipped flowers arranged in clusters. These blooms contribute to the area’s floral diversity and beauty.
- Unique Features: It differs from Dicliptera beddomei in stem hair characteristics and bract structure. The tertiary bracts are linear and spathulate, unlike the ovate bracts of other species.
Flowering Period and Habitat
The flowering period for Dicliptera srisailamica spans October to January, during which the plant thrives along stream banks and rocky edges. However, these habitats are fragile and susceptible to environmental disturbances, highlighting the urgency of conservation measures.
Conservation and Future Studies
Although its conservation status is yet to be formally assessed, the plant’s limited habitat underscores the need for immediate attention. Key steps include:
- Preservation: Specimens of Dicliptera srisailamica have been stored in major Indian herbaria to support further research.
- Extended Surveys: Studies in nearby regions aim to explore the plant’s distribution and ecological requirements.
- Habitat Protection: Conservation efforts for stream banks and rocky habitats are critical for the survival of this rare species.
Significance of the Discovery
This discovery emphasizes the Eastern Ghats’ ecological importance and the role of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve as a sanctuary for rare species. The identification of Dicliptera srisailamica also highlights the contributions of the Botanical Survey of India, which continues to advance research in plant diversity and conservation.
Key Takeaways for Botanical Enthusiasts and Exams
- Dicliptera srisailamica: A newly identified flowering plant endemic to India, belonging to the Acanthaceae family.
- Habitat: Found in the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
- Unique Features: Distinguished by its pink flowers, ovate leaves, and linear tertiary bracts.
- Conservation Priority: The species requires habitat protection and further studies for ecological preservation.
This discovery is a testament to the rich, unexplored biodiversity of India and the ongoing efforts to document and protect its natural treasures.