In a positive development for vegetable farmers and researchers, a scientist affiliated with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in the state has identified a novel plant species of ‘wild okra.’ This discovery holds promise for hybridization efforts aimed at creating a more resilient variety with heightened disease resistance, thereby contributing to the expansion of the genetic diversity within the okra plant.
Dr. Ramesh Chandra Mishra, the Principal Scientist at ICAR-National Bureau Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) Regional Station in Cuttack, made this groundbreaking discovery in the moist deciduous forest of the Bansapal block in Keonjhar district. Remarkably, this marks the first-ever identification of a new plant species of ‘wild okra’ anywhere in the country.
The recently discovered plant species, named ‘Abelmoschus Odishae,’ is the 14th variety within the wild okra family. It has earned its nomenclature from the state where the type specimens were initially gathered. Describing the characteristics of this perennial shrub, Dr. Mishra highlighted its stature, reaching up to 5 meters, with a densely hispid prickly stem adorned with retrorse hairs. The plant boasts large, deep yellow flowers featuring approximately 8 (7-9) lanceolate epicalyx, ovoid to oblong bristly capsules, and sub-reniform seeds characterized by short, stout, and non-spiral trichomes. Notably, the newly discovered species exhibits an impressive seed viability of 95 percent.
Following its unveiling in 2019, the original herbarium specimens of the plant have been meticulously documented at the National Herbarium of Crop Plants, ICAR-NBPGR in New Delhi, and the Central National Herbarium, Botanical Survey of India, Howrah, serving as valuable references for future research and exploration. This groundbreaking find holds significant potential for advancing agricultural practices and enhancing the resilience of okra crops against diseases, further underscoring the importance of biodiversity in agriculture.