Context:
Researchers have identified a new ‘cousin’ of the turmeric, thanks to a serendipitous discovery during a field trip in Nagaland.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
Overview of Curcuma ungmensis:
- Taxonomic Classification: This species is part of the Curcuma genus, which belongs to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae.
- Naming Origin: The species was named after its discovery location, Ungma village in the Mokokchung district.
- Plant Description: Curcuma ungmensis is a rhizomatous herb with branched rhizomes that are deeply embedded in the soil, making it suitable for garden cultivation.
- Cultivation: It is cultivated as an ornamental plant for ground cover, thriving post-domestication.
- Flowering Season: The plant blooms during the rainy season from August to October, with flowers that open in the morning and wilt by day’s end.
- Conservation Concerns: It is under severe threat from activities like road development, building construction, and natural disasters.
Botanical Significance and Distribution:
- Family Details: The Zingiberaceae family comprises 21 genera and approximately 200 species in India.
- Significant Relatives: Within its genus, it is related to well-known species such as turmeric (Curcuma longa), black turmeric (Curcumacaesia), and mango ginger (Curcuma amada).
- Geographical Spread: The Curcuma genus is predominantly found in South and Southeast Asia, Southern China, parts of Northern Australia, and the South Pacific.
- Indian Diversity: About 40 species of Curcuma are identified across India, particularly in the northeastern and southern states, as well as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
-Source: The Hindu
