New Orchid Species Coelogyne tripurensis Discovered in Tripura’s Jampui Hills
First Published: 20th October, 2024 19:04 IST
The find, made by researchers Arjun Adit and Pankaj Kumar, has been hailed as a significant addition to the region’s biodiversity.
A significant discovery has been made in Tripura’s Jampui Hills with the identification of a new orchid species named Coelogyne tripurensis. This species was found by researchers Arjun Adit and Pankaj Kumar, whose study was recently published in Phytotaxa, a journal specializing in botanical taxonomy.
Coelogyne tripurensis was discovered in the moist broadleaf forests of the Jampui Hills, located in Tripura’s North District, about 200 kilometers from Agartala and at an altitude of 3,000 feet. The region, bordering Mizoram, is part of the Indo-Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot and is known for its unique and diverse plant species.
The research highlights the significance of this find, as the orchid shows notable differences from closely related species within the Coelogyne genus. This genus, consisting of around 600 species, is native to the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and the Southwest Pacific Islands. It is popular among horticulturists for its ornamental beauty and easy cultivation.
The section of Coelogyne to which the new species belongs, Fuliginosae, is characterized by unique features such as showy flowers, a distinctive labellum, and keels. However, these orchids exhibit a high degree of phenotypic plasticity, making it challenging to distinguish between closely related species. The researchers created an identification key to clarify the differences between species in this section.
Fieldwork for this discovery was conducted between 2017 and 2022 as part of an orchid bio-inventory survey in Tripura. The researchers gathered photographs, morphometric data, and geo-coordinates of the species. Due to its threatened status and limited population, only one specimen was collected, preserved, and deposited at the Delhi University Herbarium.
Also Read: TIPRA Motha Chief Urges Youth to Stand Up Against Communal Violence in Tripura
Also Watch:
COMMENTS
TOPMOST STORY NOW
Live Tripura: TSF Protests in Agartala, Demands Roman Script for Kokborok in Upcoming Board Exams
15th January 2025
Live Meghalaya Cabinet Takes Key Decisions, Including Amendment of State Anthem and Investment Promotion Act
15th January 2025
Live Who Will be the Next Assam BJP Chief? Election on Jan 17
15th January 2025
Live Suicide Cases In Manipur Concerning: MCPCR
15th January 2025
WE RECOMMEND
Tripura: TSF Protests in Agartala, Demands Roman Script for Kokborok in Upcoming Board Exams
The TSF vowed that the agitation would continue until their demands are met.
15th January 2025Meghalaya Cabinet Takes Key Decisions, Including Amendment of State Anthem and Investment Promotion Act
The updated anthem will be unveiled at the Meghalaya Games 2025, which are set to take place in Jowai later this year.
15th January 2025
Tripartite Talks on FNT Concludes: ENPO Demands New Central Battalion for Eastern District’s Youths
Post Views: 37
15th January 2025