Gongronema
Sasidharanii : SPECIES OF THE DAY
A plant with smooth stems and small urn-shaped flowers
spotted in Idukki district has been identified as an entirely new species of
the genus Gongronema. Equally importantly, this is the first
time Gongronema has been reported from south India.
New Botanical Discovery: Gongronema
Sasidharanii
- A
new plant species found in Pampadum Shola National Park, Kerala.
- Characterized
by smooth stems and small urn-shaped flowers transitioning from creamy
white to purplish-green.
- Marks
the first report of the genus Gongronema in South India, expanding its
known range beyond northeastern states and parts of North India.
Pampadum Shola National Park
- Situated
in the eastern Southern Western Ghats, Idukki District, Kerala.
- Covers
approximately 12 square kilometers.
- The
name translates to ‘the forest where the snake dances,’ reflecting the
park’s dynamic landscape.
- Features
undulating terrain with hillocks, with elevations ranging from 1600 to
2400 meters.
- Characterized
by a misty and cloudy atmosphere year-round, with significant rainfall
during the North-East monsoon.
Ecological Attributes
- Vegetation:
Comprises a diverse assembly of evergreen forests, moist deciduous
forests, shola grasslands, and semi-evergreen formations.
- Flora:
Hosts an array of 22 tree species, 74 herb species, and 16 climber
species.
- Fauna:
- Mammals:
Inhabited by tigers, leopards, giant gizzard squirrels, rare flying
squirrels, Nilgiri Tahr, and spotted deer.
- Special
Mention: The Nilgiri marten, unique to
South India, is a notable inhabitant.
- Butterflies:
Home to approximately 100 butterfly species, highlighting its rich
biodiversity.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/plant-found-in-idukki-identified-as-new-species-of-genus-gongronema/article68539524.ece