News Excerpt:

Researchers from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have discovered a new plant species in the Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh named Phlogacanthus sudhansusekharii to  honor Dr. Sudhansu Sekhar Dash for his significant contributions to plant and ecological research.

About Phlogacanthus sudhansusekharii 

• It belongs to the family Acanthaceae and the genus Phlogacanthus.
• The genus Phlogacanthus includes 13 species found primarily in the northeastern and eastern Himalayan states of India. 
• The newly discovered species is closely related to Phlogacanthus guttatus (Wall) Nees but differs in several morphological aspects.
• Key differences include the shape and size of the calyx and staminodes, as well as a distinctively coloured corona.

Significance of the Discovery:

• This discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of the region and underscores the importance of ongoing botanical and ecological research in the Indian Himalayan area.
• This new species adds to the already diverse flora of Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizing the need to preserve the region's natural heritage. T
• The discovery also honors Dr. Sudhansu Sekhar Dash for his significant contributions to plant and ecological research.

Conservation and Future Research:

• The discovery of Phlogacanthus sudhansusekharii serves as a reminder of the rich natural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh and the importance of conserving it for future generations. 
• Researchers continue to explore and document the region's biodiversity, contributing to the global understanding of plant species and their ecological significance.