Why in News?
Scientists from the Botanical Survey of India have identified a new flowering plant species, Osbeckia ulotricha, in the shola grasslands of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve in the Western Ghats.
The species is endemic to the region and has been found at an altitude of 1,200–1,500 metres.
Key Highlights
- Osbeckia ulotricha belongs to the Melastomataceae family and grows mainly in the damp margins of shola forests and montane grasslands.
- The plant flowers and produces fruits between February and May.
- Scientists identified it as a separate species based on small but important differences in its leaves, flower structure, pollen, seeds and other microscopic features.
- The plant has a woolly or curly-haired appearance, which is reflected in its name ulotricha.
- Around 50 flowering individuals have been recorded from three locations spread over less than 1 sq km.
- Since a detailed population survey has not yet been carried out, the species has been assessed as Data Deficient under IUCN criteria.
About Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve
- Located in the Western Ghats, covering parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
- It is known for its rich biodiversity and several endemic species.
- The region includes important shola forests and montane grasslands.
- Habitat loss, fragmentation and climate change are major threats to the biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
