Botanists from Davangere discover three new plant species; another reported for the first time in Karnataka
IN NEWS:
Botanists from Davangere discover three new plant species; another reported for the first time in Karnataka
1. Discovery Overview
- Two botanists from Davangere University, Karnataka:
- Assistant Professor Siddappa B. Kakkalameli
- Research Scholar Prashant Karadakatti
- Discovered three new plant species in the Western Ghats, Karnataka.
- Another species reported for the first time in Karnataka.
- Findings published in international journals during 2024–25.
2. Taxonomic Details
- All newly discovered plants belong to the family Melastomataceae.
- Grow under specific climatic and ecological conditions of the Western Ghats.
- Authenticated by:
- International Plant Nomenclature Index (IPNI)
- World Flora Online (WFO)
3. Research and Publication
- Published in:
- Asian Journal of Research in Botany
- Journal of Threatened Taxa
- Phytotaxa
- Highlights the importance of floristic exploration in biodiversity hotspots.
4. Significance of Discovery
- India is one of the mega-biodiverse countries; discoveries add to global plant inventory.
- Globally, estimated 30,00,000 plant species exist, out of which 2,50,000 species are known, leaving 27,50,000 yet to be discovered.
- Enhances understanding of species diversity, ecology, and conservation priorities in the Western Ghats.
NECESSARY STATIC PART
1. Western Ghats
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot.
- Home to endemic plant and animal species.
- Supports unique ecological niches influenced by climate, altitude, and rainfall.
2. Melastomataceae Family
- Widely distributed in tropical regions.
- Known for ornamental and ecological value, with several species restricted to specific habitats.
3. Importance of Plant Discovery
- Contributes to scientific knowledge, taxonomy, and conservation planning.
- Helps in ecological restoration and habitat protection strategies.