A recently discovered orchid species, Gastrodia indica, found in the Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary, Sikkim, presents a unique case in the world of botany. This orchid challenges the typical characteristics of blooming orchids as it never opens its flowers. The discovery was made by botanist Madhusudan Khanal from the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment—Sikkim Regional Centre.
Discovery Details
- Species Name: Gastrodia indica
- Location: Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary, Sikkim
- Elevation: 1,950–2,100 metres above sea level
- Discovery By: Madhusudan Khanal, research scholar, Department of Botany, Sikkim University
- Institution: G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment—Sikkim Regional Centre
Unique Characteristics
- Flowering Behavior: Cleistogamous (flowers do not open)
- Pollination: Self-pollinating
- Dependency: Holomycotrophic (relies on fungal hosts, lacks chlorophyll)
- Habitat: Dense, rotten leaf litter; associated with trees like Magnolia doltsopa, Acer campbelli, and Quercus lamellosa
Botanical Significance
- Rarity: Only five completely cleistogamous species documented worldwide
- New Additions: Brings the total number of Gastrodia species in India to ten
- Herbarium Specimens: Deposited in Central National Herbarium (CAL) and Sikkim University Herbarium
Conservation Concerns
- Population: Fewer than 100 individuals observed
- Threats: Limited population and specific habitat requirements; sensitive to anthropogenic pressure
Sanctuary Details
- Wildlife: Himalayan black bear, red panda, rare birds
- Views: Khangchendzonga range visible from the Sanctuary’s buffer area
- Conservation: Key site for wildlife and flora conservation
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the unique feature of Gastrodia indica?
- A) It has bright red flowers
- B) It never opens its flowers
- C) It grows underwater
- D) It has large, green leaves
- Which institute conducted the research on Gastrodia indica?
- A) Indian Institute of Science
- B) G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment—Sikkim Regional Centre
- C) National Botanical Research Institute
- D) Indian Agricultural Research Institute
- What type of plant is Gastrodia indica?
- A) Chasmogamous
- B) Cleistogamous
- C) Epiphytic
- D) Aquatic
- What is the primary source of sustenance for Gastrodia indica?
- A) Photosynthesis
- B) Decaying leaf litter
- C) Fungal hosts
- D) Rainwater
- How many Gastrodia species are there in India after the discovery of Gastrodia indica?
- A) Five
- B) Seven
- C) Ten
- D) Twelve