A significant botanical discovery has been made by the Botanical Survey of India (BSI). A new flowering plant species, Dicliptera srisailamica, has been identified in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The research was led by scientist L. Rasingam from BSI’s Deccan Regional Centre, Hyderabad.
Habitat and Location
The species was located within the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, near the well-known Srisailam area. This discovery adds to the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Ghats.
Taxonomy and Global Presence
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Global Representation: 223 species in the family
- Indian Context:
- 27 species of Dicliptera in India
- 8 species endemic to India
- 7 species recorded in Andhra Pradesh
Dicliptera species are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions globally.
Description of Dicliptera srisailamica
- Growth Habit: Erect herb, up to 90 cm tall
- Stem: Four-angled, with fine deflexed hairs when young
- Leaves: Ovate with smooth margins and prominent veins
- Flowers:
- Small, pink, bi-lipped
- Arranged in clusters
- Bloom period: October to January
Distinguishing Features
Compared to Dicliptera beddomei, Dicliptera srisailamica shows several unique characteristics:
- Stem Hairs: Short, downturned hairs
- Bracts: Linear and spathulate tertiary bracts, unlike ovate bracts in D. beddomei
- Capsules: Fewer glandular hairs, covered in simple hairs
Naming and Conservation
- Name Origin: The species is named after the temple town of Srisailam.
- Habitat: Found in rare patches along stream banks and rocky edges near waterfalls.
- Preservation: Specimens are stored in Indian herbaria, including the Central National Herbarium.
Conservation Concerns
Although the conservation status has not been formally evaluated, the limited habitat and potential environmental threats underline the urgency for conservation efforts. Protecting these ecosystems is vital to preserving the unique biodiversity of the region.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. Which family does Dicliptera srisailamica belong to?
a) Fabaceae
b) Acanthaceae
c) Solanaceae
d) Poaceae
Answer: b) Acanthaceae
2. Where was Dicliptera srisailamica discovered?
a) Western Ghats
b) Eastern Ghats
c) Himalayas
d) Sundarbans
Answer: b) Eastern Ghats
3. How tall can Dicliptera srisailamica grow?
a) 50 cm
b) 70 cm
c) 90 cm
d) 100 cm
Answer: c) 90 cm
4. What color are the flowers of Dicliptera srisailamica?
a) Yellow
b) Pink
c) White
d) Blue
Answer: b) Pink
5. Which of the following distinguishes Dicliptera srisailamica from Dicliptera beddomei?
a) Capsule size
b) Shape of bracts
c) Flower color
d) Leaf size
Answer: b) Shape of bracts
6. What is the bloom period of Dicliptera srisailamica?
a) March to May
b) October to January
c) June to August
d) February to April
Answer: b) October to January