New Impatiens Species Discovered in Western Ghats
Recent research from Madura College in Madurai has led to the discovery of a new plant species in the Kudremukh range of the Western Ghats, Karnataka. Named ‘Impatiens selvasinghii’, this species honours Professor P Selva Singh Richard for his extensive work on the reproductive biology of endemic and endangered plants in the region. This discovery adds to the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats and marks conservation challenges linked to tourism.
Discovery and Naming
Researchers collected the specimen at Kudremukh peak, 1,630 metres above sea level. Detailed study showed it was previously unrecorded. The new species was named ‘Impatiens selvasinghii’ to honour Professor Selva Singh Richard’s two decades of botanical research and mentorship in the Western Ghats. The finding was published in the international journal Taiwania.
Botanical Characteristics
‘Impatiens selvasinghii’ is notable for having the smallest flowers among balsams in the Western Ghats. It features prominently lobed wing petals which distinguish it from related species. Its small flowers attract tiny insects that depend on it for survival, indicating a specialised ecological interaction.
Ecological and Conservation Significance
The genus ‘Impatiens’ in India includes over 280 taxa, mainly found in the Eastern Himalayas and Western Ghats. Of these, 210 taxa are endemic to India, with 130 exclusive to the Western Ghats. Alarmingly, 80% of these Western Ghats taxa are endangered. The new species habitat lies along a popular trekking route, raising concerns about over-tourism and its potential threat to this rare plant.
Research and Future Studies
The lead researcher, P Bharath Simha Yadav, plans to study the ecological role of ‘Impatiens selvasinghii’ further. This includes its interactions with other plants and insects. Such studies are crucial for understanding ecosystem dynamics and formulating conservation strategies.
Significance of the Western Ghats
The Western Ghats is a global biodiversity hotspot known for its high levels of endemism. This discovery reinforces the region’s status as a centre of botanical diversity. It also marks the need for sustainable tourism and habitat protection to preserve rare species.
| Related | |
|---|---|
