Revealing Nature's New Treasure: Petrocosmea arunachalense Found in Arunachal Pradesh's Mandala Region
In Short:
- Researchers discover Petrocosmea arunachalense in Mandala, West Kameng district.
- Second known species of Petrocosmea in India, part of the Gesneriaceae family.
- Discovery underscores Arunachal Pradesh's diverse flora and conservation needs.
- Chief Minister Pema Khandu lauds researchers for uncovering this botanical treasure.
- The find underscores the state's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.
In a remarkable discovery, scientists from the Arunachal Pradesh Regional Centre of the Botanical Survey of India have unearthed a new plant species in the serene Mandala region of West Kameng district. Named Petrocosmea arunachalense, this plant marks only the second species of its genus identified in India, belonging to the Gesneriaceae family.
The find is a testament to the incredible biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh, renowned for its rich tapestry of flora and fauna. Petrocosmea arunachalense joins the roster of unique plant species thriving in the state, emphasizing the urgent need for continuous conservation efforts.
Expressing his delight, Chief Minister Pema Khandu took to social media platform X to extend his congratulations. He tweeted, "Arunachal Pradesh's flora continues to astonish us! Kudos to the researchers at the Arunachal Pradesh Regional Centre of @bsi_moefcc for discovering Petrocosmea arunachalense, the second known species of its genus in India. Let us preserve the natural treasures around us."
The Chief Minister's statement underscores the critical importance of safeguarding Arunachal Pradesh's natural heritage. The discovery of Petrocosmea arunachalense not only enhances our scientific knowledge of the region's biodiversity but also serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden marvels awaiting discovery in the natural world.
As research advances, the Arunachal Pradesh Regional Centre of the Botanical Survey of India remains committed to exploring and documenting the distinctive plant life of the state. Their efforts contribute significantly to global botanical understanding and strengthen conservation initiatives aimed at protecting our planet's ecological diversity.