New Tree Species Found in Assam

A new tree species found in Assam gained national and international recognition in 2025. Named Garcinia kusumae, this discovery enhances the forest biodiversity of Assam and adds to the growing list of rare tree species in India.

This plant species is of immense interest not only to environmental scientists but also to SSC aspirants, as it may appear in General Awareness and Environment-related questions in competitive exams.

New Tree Species Found in Assam

• Scientific Name: Garcinia kusumae

• Local Name: Thoikora

• Genus: Garcinia

• Discoverer: Jatindra Sarma, Senior Botanist and Chairman, Assam State Expert Appraisal Committee

• Published in: Feddes Repertorium, an international journal on plant taxonomy

• Co-Author: Hussain A. Barbhuiya, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai

This new tree species found in Assam is part of the Garcinia tree genus, well known for its medicinal and edible species. Assam already houses 12 Garcinia species and 3 varieties among the 33 found in India, making it a key region for botanical discovery.

Significance for India’s Biodiversity

• The discovery of this new tree species found in Assam showcases the rich Assam forest biodiversity.

• It also reflects the importance of continued tree discovery and documentation efforts in the Northeast region.

• The plant was identified during a survey in April 2025 in the Baksa district, under a forest study initiative.

Scientific Features and Traditional Uses

The new tree species found in Assam has the following features:

• Evergreen tree, up to 18 metres tall

• Flowering period: February to April

• Fruiting period: May to June

• Unique feature: Produces a black resin fruit

• Traditional Use: The dried pulp is used in fish curries, as a cooling drink, and in traditional medicine

It is believed to help with diabetes and dysentery, making it a valuable medicinal tree species in India. This forest plant with anti-diabetic properties from Assam is another example of how indigenous communities use local biodiversity for health and nutrition.

Named in Honour of a Mother

• The new tree species found in Assam was named Garcinia kusumae by Jatindra Sarma in memory of his mother, Kusum Devi.

• He has previously named species after his father, wife, and daughter, making him the first Indian botanist to name four new plant species after family members.

• This adds a personal dimension to the scientific discovery and highlights how emotional narratives also influence scientific naming traditions.

Assam’s Role in Botanical Discoveries

With this new tree species found in Assam, the state continues to establish itself as a botanical hotspot. The Assam tree survey 2025 was crucial in identifying this plant.

The Assam tree identification process involved:

• Field collection

• Herbarium techniques (drying and pressing)

• Comparative analysis with existing plant species

Such efforts reinforce the region’s importance in rare plant discoveries in India, especially those with medicinal and culinary significance.

Important for SSC Aspirants

This new tree species found in Assam is a highly relevant topic for SSC CGL, CHSL, GD, MTS, and other competitive exams. Questions on environment, biodiversity, current affairs, and botanical discoveries are common.

Possible SSC-Based Questions

1. What is the name of the new tree species found in Assam in 2025?
   Answer: Garcinia kusumae

2. Who discovered Garcinia kusumae?
   Answer: Jatindra Sarma

3. In which district of Assam was Garcinia kusumae discovered?
   Answer: Baksa

4. What is the local name of Garcinia kusumae?
   Answer: Thoikora

5. What unique feature does this new species have?
   Answer: Black resin fruit with medicinal properties

Final Thoughts

The discovery of the new tree species found in Assam — Garcinia kusumae — is a shining example of how India's unexplored forests continue to yield scientifically valuable and culturally significant findings.

It reinforces the ecological wealth of Assam and highlights the dedication of Indian botanists in uncovering nature’s hidden treasures.

For students and SSC aspirants, this discovery is not just news — it's a crucial piece of current affairs that reflects the growing importance of environmental awareness in competitive exams. Staying updated on such topics ensures you're not just exam-ready, but also aware of the world around you.