Context:
A team of Indian botanists has identified a new leafless orchid species, Gastrodia lohitensis, in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lohit district.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
Gastrodia lohitensis: A Rare Orchid from Arunachal Pradesh
- Origin and Habitat: Gastrodia lohitensis is a unique, leafless orchid species named after its discovery location in Lohit district, Arunachal Pradesh. It thrives in the dense, shaded undergrowth of bamboo thickets around Tezu.
- Adaptations and Features:
- Sunlight Independence: Unlike typical orchids, Gastrodia lohitensis does not rely on sunlight. It derives its nutrients from fungi that decompose leaf litter, showcasing a myco-heterotrophic mode of nutrition.
- Distinct Morphology: The orchid grows to a height of 50-110 cm. It features distinct linear calli and ridges on the flower lip, which differentiate it from similar species found in Southeast Asia.
- Ecological Specificity: This orchid flourishes exclusively under dense bamboo canopies, indicating a highly specialized ecological preference.
- Conservation Challenges:
- Threats to Survival: The limited distribution of Gastrodia lohitensis within Lohit district makes it vulnerable to local environmental changes. The primary threats include bamboo harvesting and expanding agricultural practices, which disrupt its natural habitat.
- Need for Protection: Conservationists emphasize the critical need to preserve the specific bamboo habitats that support the survival of this rare orchid. Protecting these areas is essential for maintaining the biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh’s unique ecosystems.
- Conservation Importance: The preservation of Gastrodia lohitensis not only protects a rare species but also contributes to the broader efforts of maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity in one of India’s most biodiverse regions.
-Source: The Hindu
