Crepidium assamicum New Orchid in Assam
The latest discovery in Assam’s rich orchid diversity-Crepidium assamicum- recently found in Dibru Saikhowa National Park. This exciting new orchid species was discovered by Dr. Jintu Sarma and Khyanjeet Gogoi, increasing India’s Crepidium species to 19.
Well, hold on to your hats, flower enthusiasts! Assam has just added another feather to its botanical cap with the discovery of a new orchid species, Crepidium assamicum, in the splendid Dibru Saikhowa National Park. This delightful addition was unearthed by none other than Dr. Jintu Sarma, an assistant professor at the Department of Botany, Guwahati College, alongside the renowned Khyanjeet Gogoi, affectionately dubbed the “Orchid Man of Assam.” One can’t help but wonder if he dons a cape while tending to these floral wonders!
With the introduction of Crepidium assamicum, the number of Crepidium species in India has climbed to a respectable 19, while the global count has swelled to an impressive 281. Talk about a blooming success! This new find has made it into the pages of Feddes Repertorium, a journal that’s as prestigious as a cup of Earl Grey in the world of botany, published by John Wiley & Sons in the USA. If that’s not a badge of honour, I don’t know what is!
According to Dr. Sarma, scientific reports suggest there are about 27,000 orchid species worldwide, with experts predicting this number could rise to 35,000. Now that’s a staggering figure! Out of this floral fiesta, India boasts around 1,265 species, with the northeastern region hosting about 800 taxa. The biodiversity in this part of India is as rich as a fruitcake at Christmas.
However, it’s not all rosy in the garden. Dr. Sarma has also sounded the alarm on the gradual decline of orchid species worldwide. This sad state of affairs can be attributed to a lack of proper conservation efforts, habitat loss, and the ever-looming spectre of climate change. Orchids are notoriously sensitive to their surroundings, and it seems the delicate balance of nature is tipping like a teetering tower of Jenga blocks.
The northeastern part of the Indian Himalayas, often referred to as the “Cradle of Flowering Plants,” is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Among its floral inhabitants, orchids are considered the crème de la crème of flowering plants, charmingly dubbed “The Jewel of Nature.” With around 414 orchid species currently calling Assam home, this state is truly a botanical hotspot.
As scientists continue to explore this significant group of flowering plants, the number of orchid species found in Assam is steadily on the rise. It’s clear that this region is not just a pretty face; it’s a veritable paradise for flora lovers and researchers alike. So, as we tip our hats to the Orchid Man and his team, let’s hope that conservation efforts will catch up with these discoveries, ensuring that these splendid blooms continue to thrive for generations to come. After all, we wouldn’t want the orchids to become just another tale of what once was, would we?
Information and cover picture sources Assam Tribune.
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