Rare plant species discovered in Nagaland, a first for India
Rare plant species discovered in Nagaland, a first for India
Researchers have made a significant botanical discovery in Noklak district, identifying Saxifraga rufescens var. rufescens, a plant species previously thought to be confined to China and Myanmar
Saxifraga rufescens Balf.f. var. rufescens plant in its
natural habitat. (Photo: Santanu Dey)
DIMAPUR — Researchers have made a significant
botanical discovery in Noklak district, identifying Saxifraga rufescens var.
rufescens, a plant species previously thought to be confined to China and
Myanmar.
This finding represents both a new addition to India’s flora
and the first recorded instance of this species in Nagaland.
The plant was found thriving on moss-covered rocks within
the temperate broad-leaved evergreen forest of the Khelia King mountain range
of Noklak district, at an elevation of 2,265 metres above sea level.
Saxifraga rufescens Balf.f. var. rufescens plant in its
natural habitat. (Photo: Santanu Dey)
During their September 2024 field surveys, researchers
observed two distinct populations totalling 15-20 individual plants on
surrounding mountain slopes.
“The state of Nagaland remains a treasure trove of untapped
botanical diversity, with its flora yet to be thoroughly explored,” noted the
research team in their report published in Feddes Repertorium.
The discovery team included Dr. Santanu Dey and Dr. Moaakum
from Kohima Science College, along with Hussain A Barbhuiya from the Bhabha
Atomic Research Centre.
The report also explained that the original description of
Saxifraga rufescens lacked a designated holotype -- a primary reference
specimen. To establish clear scientific classification, the team designated a
lectotype from the existing syntypes (specimens used in the original
description) housed in various herbaria.
“To stabilise its nomenclature, a lectotype is designated
from the syntypes housed at BM, E, HBG, and K,” it said.
The discovery not only expands the known range of Saxifraga
rufescens but also establishes a new generic record for the state of Nagaland.
“Furthermore, this finding contributes to the floristic richness of Nagaland,
highlighting the region’s botanical significance and underscoring the need for
further exploration,” stated the report.
