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Overview of Curcuma Ungmensis

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


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