Why in news?
Botanists in Kerala have described a new species of plant from the carrot family named Tetrataenium manilalianum. The discovery adds to the rich flora of the Western Ghats and honours the late taxonomist Prof. K.S. Manilal.
Background
Tetrataenium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae (umbrella or carrot family). Plants in this genus typically have hollow stems, compound leaves and umbrella-shaped clusters of small flowers. Well-known members of the family include coriander, fennel and cumin.
The new species was found at elevations of 1,200-1,800 m in Eravikulam National Park, Idukki district, Kerala. It grows in high-altitude grasslands bordering shola forests. The species has a tuberous rootstock and slender stems 60-100 cm tall. Basal leaves are ternate to bi-ternate (divided into three leaflets that may themselves split), while upper leaves become simple. Each plant produces a large compound umbel with white flowers and linear bracts. The fruits are elongated and ribbed.
Nomenclature and distinctions
The researchers named the species manilalianum to honour Prof. K.S. Manilal, a pioneering botanist who contributed extensively to Indian plant taxonomy and the Hortus Malabaricus project. The species resembles Tetrataenium sprengelianum but differs in several morphological traits, including its basal leaf structure, bract shape and the number of rays in its umbels. Unlike its relatives, it flowers between July and September and fruits from September to November.
Conservation concerns
Tetrataenium manilalianum is currently known only from its type locality in Eravikulam National Park. Its population appears small and confined to a narrow altitudinal range. The authors have provisionally classified it as Data Deficient because more field surveys are needed to assess its abundance and threats. Habitat loss due to tourism, climate change or invasive species could pose risks.
Conclusion
The discovery of Tetrataenium manilalianum highlights the Western Ghats' status as a global biodiversity hotspot. New species continue to emerge from these mountains, underscoring the need for continued exploration and conservation. Recognising the contributions of Indian botanists through nomenclature also inspires future generations to study and protect native flora.
Source: Nordic Journal of Botany . ETV Bharat