In a significant botanical discovery, researchers from the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) and CSIR-Northeast Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat in Assam collaborated to identify a new flowering plant species in Arunachal Pradesh, named Begonia Narahari. This finding highlights the importance of conservation efforts amidst urban expansion and habitat loss.
Discovery and Collaboration
- Researchers from USTM and CSIR-NEIST collaborated to identify Begonia Narahari.
- The discovery took place in the Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Dr. Nazir Ahmad Bhat and Bipankar Hajong collected specimens under the guidance of Dr. Pankaj Bharali.
Taxonomic Identification
- Specimens were analyzed and found to be a previously undescribed species within the genus Begonia.
- The species, named ‘Narahari,’ honors Prof Garikapati Narahari Sastry’s contributions to the region’s welfare.
Distinctive Features
- Begonia Narahari is distinguished by its vivid blue iridescence under direct light.
- Currently known only from the Demwe locality in the Lohit district.
Conservation Status
- Classified as Data Deficient (DD) following IUCN guidelines due to limited data.
- Potential threats include agricultural expansion, habitat loss from fires, and timber extraction.
Significance
- Highlights the rich biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Underscores the critical role of scientific research in documenting new species.
- Emphasizes the need for conservation measures to protect species and habitats.
Ecological Importance
- Certain Begonia species provide habitat and sustenance for various fauna.
- Protection of Begonia Narahari and similar species is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.
Implications
- Emphasizes the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts.
- Aims to foster greater appreciation for Northeast India’s biodiversity and the need for sustainable practices.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Who collaborated to identify Begonia Narahari?
- A) University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) and CSIR-Northeast Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat
- B) University of Delhi and Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
- C) University of Cambridge and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- D) Stanford University and University of Oxford
- What distinguishes Begonia Narahari?
- A) Its large leaves
- B) Its vivid blue iridescence under direct light
- C) Its strong fragrance
- D) Its tall stem
- Why was Begonia Narahari named ‘Narahari’?
- A) In honor of a famous botanist
- B) In honor of Prof Garikapati Narahari Sastry’s contributions to the region’s welfare
- C) In honor of the region where it was discovered
- D) In honor of the university where it was first studied
- What is the current conservation status of Begonia Narahari?
- A) Endangered
- B) Vulnerable
- C) Data Deficient (DD)
- D) Critically Endangered
- What is emphasized by the discovery of Begonia Narahari?
- A) The need for urban expansion
- B) The importance of habitat loss
- C) The critical role of scientific research in documenting new species
- D) The need for deforestation