Context:
Researchers have discovered a new plant species in the genus ‘Impatiens’ (Balsaminaceae) in Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Tirunelveli.
Relevance:
GS III: Environment and Ecology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Discovery of ‘Impatiens Karuppusamyi’ in Agasthyamalai Region
- Key Facts about Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
Discovery of ‘Impatiens Karuppusamyi’ in Agasthyamalai Region
- The recently discovered plant species is named ‘Impatiens Karuppusamyi’, paying tribute to S. Karuppusamy for his notable contributions to the taxonomy of South Indian angiosperms.
- It exclusively inhabits the Agasthyamalai region within the southern Western Ghats.
- Classified under the scapigerous group (stemless group), the plant graces the landscape during the monsoon season for a limited period.
Impatiens Genus Overview:
- Genus Impatiens: Encompassing over 1,000 species of flowering plants, the genus is widespread across tropical Africa, Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka, and China.
Key Facts about Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve:
- Location: Situated in the Southern Western Ghats, spanning the Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu.
- Composite Sanctuaries: The reserve comprises three main sanctuaries: Kalakkad Sanctuary, Mundanthurai Sanctuary, and a segment of Kanyakumari Sanctuary.
- Agastya Malai Hill Range: Forming the core area of the sanctuary, this hill range is part of one of the world’s 18 biodiversity hotspots and is colloquially known as the “River Sanctuary” due to 14 rivers originating from the Tiger Reserve.
- Vegetation Diversity: Ranging from dry thorn forest to dry deciduous, moist deciduous, and a patch of West Coast wet evergreen forests on the higher elevations.
- Rich Fauna: Home to diverse wildlife, including the Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Pipit, Grey Headed Bulbul, Blue Winged Parakeet, and more.
-Source: The Times of India
