Guwahati: A new plant species has been discovered in Assam’s Kopili River Basin in Dima Hasao district, adding to Northeast India’s growing list of botanical discoveries — but with an alarming twist: fewer than 25 individuals have been recorded so far.
The species, named Munronia assamica, has been formally described in the international journal Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore.
The discovery was made by botanists S. Dey, M.R. Ranjith Layola, J. Das, D.K. Baruah, S. Roy and M. Bhaumik during floristic surveys in the river basin.
The plant was found growing in rock crevices along the Kopili riverbed, particularly in shady, fast-flowing rheophytic habitats.
What makes this discovery particularly significant is that the researchers did not rely solely on morphology; instead, they also considered genetic information.
They conducted molecular phylogenetic analysis using ITS and rbcL DNA markers, confirming that the species forms a distinct lineage within the genus Munronia in the mahogany family (Meliaceae).
The phylogenetic tree shows Munronia assamica clustering clearly with other species of the genus, validating it as a new taxon.
The species is morphologically similar to Munronia lancifolia from Laos but differs in several key features, including unequal calyx lobes, longer corolla lobes (2.8–3.5 cm), a glabrous ovary and longer anthers.
It is a small, perennial subshrub, growing to about 15–25 cm tall, characterised by white, tubular flowers and simple, narrowly elliptical leaves.
In a concerning finding, the researchers recorded only around 23 mature individuals across three patches in the type locality. Based on IUCN criteria, the species has been provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) under Criterion D.
This means the species faces an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild, particularly as riverbed ecosystems are vulnerable to disturbance and infrastructure projects.
The species epithet “assamica” reflects its place of origin, Assam.
The discovery highlights both the rich botanical diversity of the Northeast and the fragility of its riverine ecosystems.
As floristic surveys continue in underexplored regions like the Kopili Basin, more new species may emerge — but their survival may depend on swift conservation action.
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