New epiphytic plant

06.11.2023

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Why in the news?

Scientists of the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have discovered a new species of epiphytic plant, Lysionotus namchoomii, from the Pakke-Kessang district of Arunachal Pradesh.

About New epiphytic plant

• It is named Lysionotus.
• The native range of the genus Lysionotus is the Himalayas to Japan and Indo-China, and about 50% of the species found are endemic.
• Species of the genus are mostly epiphytic, lithophytic, or terrestrial evergreen erect or climbing subshrubs.
• The new species bears thick leaves and attractive purple flowers.
• The conservation status of this new species is provisionally assessed as ‘Critically Endangered’, in accordance with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
• It is epiphytic in nature and grows another plant.
• Epiphytic plants are mostly found in tropical and subtropical.

About Botanical Survey of India (BSI)

• BSI is the apex research organization under the Environment Ministry for carrying out taxonomic and floristic studies on wild plants of India. 
• It serves the nation by providing scientific basis for conservation and sustainable use of wild plant diversity through survey, documentation, taxonomic research and environmental awareness. 
• It was established in 1890
• It has nine regional circles
• Headquarter: Kolkata, West Bengal.

Key facts about Arunachal Pradesh

• Arunachal Pradesh is popularly known as “Orchid Paradise”, “Land of Sunrise” and “Paradise of Botanist”.
• Pakke tiger reserve is famous for its Hornbill nest adoption plan.
• Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian citizens to enter Arunachal Pradesh.
• Anjaw is the easternmost district of India.
• Namchik – Namphuk in Tirap district has coal.
• In 2006 Bumla pass in Tawang was opened to traders.
• Patkai Bum hills act as a natural barrier between Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar.
• Upper Himalayas close to the Tibetan border enjoy alpine or tundra climate.
• The Dhola Sadiya bridge built across the Lohit River in Arunachal Pradesh is the longest connecting bridge in India. It connects Assam and Arunachal Pradesh and is 9 km long.
• It is the most linguistically enriched state in the Asian subcontinent. It is home to about 26 tribes and 100 sub-tribes and over 30 languages are spoken here.

Mountain Passes  

• Bombdila Pass (India-Tibet)
• Bum La Pass (India-Tibet)
• Tunga Pass (India-Tibet)
• Dihang Pass (India-Tibet)

Minerals:Petroleum, Coal, Copper Ore, Gold & Pyrites, Limestone and Marble, Dolomite, Graphite.

Mountain Ranges: Dafla Hills, Miri Hills, Abor Hills, Mishmi Hills, Patkai Range

Source:The Hindu