Guwahati: A team of botanists has found a new species, Aeschynanthus chayangtajoensis, in Arunachal Pradesh. This species adds to the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas and emphasizes the region’s importance as a global biodiversity hotspot.
The plant belongs to the genus Aeschynanthus in the family Gesneriaceae, commonly known as “lipstick plants” for their vibrant, tubular flowers. Found near Chayangtajo village in East Kameng district, the species is a perennial undershrub with distinct morphological traits, including a gibbous corolla base, glabrous gynoecium, and comparatively smaller fruit capsules.
Distinguishing Features
Aeschynanthus chayangtajoensis shares some characteristics with its relatives, A. acuminatus, A. moningerae, and A. pedunculatus. However, the new species stands out with unique features such as:
Corolla Shape and Size: A swollen, tubular corolla measuring 1.7–2.3 cm in length, distinctly different from the non-gibbous corollas of its relatives.
Glabrous Gynoecium: Unlike the pubescent gynoecia of related species, this species lacks hair-like structures.
Fruit and Seeds: Smaller capsules (8–12 cm) and papillose seed grains set it apart from the warty or smooth seeds of others.
The plant grows epiphytically on trees such as Ficus and Knema in evergreen forests at approximately 1,300 meters. Its vibrant scarlet flowers bloom from July to September, with fruiting extending until October.
Conservation Concerns
Aeschynanthus chayangtajoensis is currently categorized as “Critically Endangered” under the IUCN Red List Criteria. Its known population is confined to a single location covering only four square kilometres. The area faces threats from forest fires and wood collection, which endanger the survival of this rare species.
The plant was discovered during a floristic survey conducted by the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) in September 2024. The research team, comprising Krishna Chowlu, Akshath Shenoy, Ajit Ray, and Althaf Ahamed Kabeer, meticulously compared the plant with existing herbarium specimens and scientific literature to confirm its novelty. The new species is only known from the type locality, at an elevation of 1300 metres.
Type specimens have been deposited at the ARUN and CAL herbaria, ensuring future accessibility for study. Advanced tools, such as a trinocular stereo microscope, were employed to analyze the seeds’ surface morphology.
Significance of the Discovery
This discovery not only enhances the botanical knowledge of Arunachal Pradesh but also underscores the importance of preserving the region’s unique habitats. The specific epithet refers to the locality in Arunachal Pradesh, where the species was discovered. Chayang Tajo is one of the oldest and most remote villages in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, selected under the Vibrant Village Programme, a Government of India-sponsored scheme aiding to identify and develop the economic drivers based on local, natural, human and other resources of the border villages on the northern border of India.
The researchers urge immediate conservation measures to protect the species’ fragile habitat. Public awareness campaigns and sustainable forest management practices are essential to ensure its survival.
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