Arunachal Pradesh: A new species of mycoheterotrophic orchid, Gastrodia lohitensis, has been identified in Arunachal Pradesh, adding to the state’s rich biodiversity. The discovery was made in the Lohit district, and the species has been named after the region.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu took to his official X handle to call the finding an “exciting discovery,” underscoring the significance of this addition to the Orchidaceae family, which has recently been classified as “endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
The species was discovered thriving in bamboo thickets near Tezu in the Lohit district, where it flourishes without direct sunlight. Unlike typical orchids, Gastrodia lohitensis does not rely on photosynthesis; instead, it forms a symbiotic relationship with fungi in the leaf litter for its nutrient intake. The species is distinguished by its unique flowers and the parallel, oblong-linear calli found along its labellum, setting it apart from similar orchids in Southeast Asia.
CM Khandu congratulated Dr. Krishna Chowlu and the Botanical Survey of India team for their contributions to this significant discovery. “This discovery adds to the rich biodiversity of our region and highlights the importance of conservation,” Khandu stated, emphasizing the need to protect such rare and unique species in the region.
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