Phlogacanthus Sudhansusekharii: Arunachal New Plant Species

Discovery of Phlogacanthus Sudhansusekharii

• Discovered by researchers from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI)
• Found in Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh
• Belongs to the Acanthaceae family and Phlogacanthus genus
• Named after Dr. Sudhansu Sekhar Dash, a BSI scientist
• Honors Dr. Dash's contributions to plant and ecological research in the Indian Himalayan region
• Research paper published in the Indian Journal of Forestry by Samrat Goswami and Rohan Maity

Characteristics and Significance

• Closely related to Phlogacanthus guttatus but with distinct morphological features
• Differs in shape and size of calyx, staminodes, and corona color
• Part of the Phlogacanthus genus, which comprises 13 species in India
• Primarily found in northeastern and eastern Himalayan states
• Grows in damp, shady forests and plays a crucial role in local ecosystems
• Potential for traditional medicine applications, though not fully studied yet

Biodiversity and Conservation Implications

• Highlights the rich biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh
• Emphasizes the importance of wildlife sanctuaries in preserving unique flora
• Draws attention to the need for continued ecological research in the region
• Underscores the potential for new discoveries in unexplored areas
• Raises awareness about habitat loss and the importance of conservation efforts
• Celebrated by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, recognizing its significance for the state's natural heritage

Botanical Survey of India (BSI)

• Founded on February 13, 1890, in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
• Founded by Sir George King, former ex-officio director of Royal Botanic Garden, Calcutta.
• Organized by the Government of India, Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
• Surveys, researches, and conserves plant wealth, flora, and endangered species.
• Maintains germplasm and gene bank for endangered, patent, and vulnerable plant species.