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Didymocarpus nautiyalii Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
Botanists recently discover a new plant species, Didymocarpus nautiyalii, in Shi-Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh. The discovery is reported as highlighting the botanical diversity of the Eastern Himalaya.
Didymocarpus nautiyalii:
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Taxonomic family | Belongs to Gesneriaceae, a family of flowering plants. |
| Growth habitat and elevation | Grows on moist rock surfaces, including roadside walls and areas near waterfalls, in subtropical evergreen forests at elevations above 1,000 metres. |
| Size and morphology | Grows to around 8 cm, and has leathery leaves and bluish-purple flowers. |
| Similar species and distinguishing traits | Resembles Didymocarpus albiflorus but differs in characteristics: much shorter stem; very short or absent leaf stalks; leathery leaf blades; smaller calyx; shorter bluish-purple corolla; and a hairless ovary. |
| IUCN Red List assessment | Is currently assessed as ‘Data Deficient’ under the IUCN Red List criteria. |