Mycotrophic Orchid Gastrodia Lohitensis Found in Arunachal Pradesh
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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Taxonomic Knowledge BEFORE: Similar Gastrodia species from Southeast Asia were the primary reference points for this specific morphology. NOW: India has a newly documented endemic species, distinguished by its unique white flowers with parallel oblong-linear calli and ridged lower lips.
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Habitat Understanding BEFORE: The specific bamboo thickets around Tezu were not recognized as a critical niche for mycotrophic orchids. NOW: These shaded, dense bamboo canopies are identified as the exclusive micro-habitat where Gastrodia lohitensis relies on leaf litter fungi to survive.
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Conservation Status BEFORE: Bamboo harvesting in the Lohit district was viewed primarily as an everyday agricultural and economic activity. NOW: Bamboo extraction in this specific area is recognized as a direct threat to a highly specialized, Endangered orchid species, prompting calls for targeted habitat protection.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)Which of the following statements regarding the newly discovered orchid Gastrodia lohitensis is/are correct? 1. It is an autotrophic plant that thrives in the dense, sunlit upper canopies of tropical rainforests. 2. It has been preliminarily classified as Endangered under IUCN criteria due to threats from local bamboo harvesting.