Rare Plant Henckelia monophylla Rediscovered in Arunachal Pradesh

Scientists from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have rediscovered a rare plant species, Henckelia monophylla, in Arunachal Pradesh after nearly 189 years. The species was originally collected in 1836 but had not been recorded again for almost two centuries. The rediscovery highlights the remarkable biodiversity of India’s northeastern region and underscores the importance of botanical exploration in remote forest ecosystems.

About Henckelia monophylla

Henckelia monophylla is a rare plant species endemic to Arunachal Pradesh. It belongs to the Gesneriaceae family, which includes many flowering plants typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant was first collected in 1836 by British botanist William Griffith in the Mishmi Hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Its rediscovery confirms that the species still survives in its natural habitat despite the long absence of recorded sightings.

Habitat and Growth Conditions

The species is a perennial herb that usually grows in moist and shaded forest habitats. Such environments provide the humidity and soil conditions necessary for its survival. These forest ecosystems in Arunachal Pradesh are known for supporting numerous rare and endemic plant species due to their favourable climate and complex ecological conditions.

Key Characteristics of the Plant

Plants belonging to the Henckelia genus typically have upright or slightly trailing stems with simple leaves that are ovate or lance-shaped. They produce axillary inflorescences with one or several tubular or funnel-shaped flowers that often show delicate colouration. The fruits develop as elongated capsules containing numerous tiny seeds, which allow the plant to reproduce effectively in suitable ecological niches.

Important Facts for Exams

• Henckelia monophylla is a rare plant species endemic to Arunachal Pradesh.
• It belongs to the Gesneriaceae family and was first collected in 1836.
• The plant was originally discovered by British botanist William Griffith in the Mishmi Hills.
• The species was rediscovered by scientists from the Botanical Survey of India after about 189 years.

About the Botanical Survey of India

The Botanical Survey of India is the apex taxonomic research organisation of the country functioning under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. It was established on 13 February 1890 under the direction of Sir George King. The organisation’s mandate includes biosystematics research, floristic studies, documentation of plant diversity, development of national botanical collections and digitisation of herbarium specimens. The headquarters of the Botanical Survey of India is located in Kolkata.