Meet two new species from the Western Ghats and Nilgiris
A flowering herb named after Tamil Nadu and a tiny insect from the misty shola forests.
Botanical Survey of India researchers have described a new plant, Ceropegia tamilnaduensis, from Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. It was found on a stream-side hill slope in the Western Ghats at about 380 metres. More than 50 flowering plants were seen. It is provisionally listed as Data Deficient, which means there is not yet enough information to judge its risk.
Zoological Survey of India scientists have reported a new barklouse, Allocaecilius nilgiriensis, from the Nilgiri Hills. It lives in damp, shaded shola and evergreen forests in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. With this find, the genus Allocaecilius has 13 known species worldwide.
Barklice are tiny insects that usually live on tree bark and leaves.
Why it matters
New species are still being found in India, even in places we think we know well. Each one tells scientists how rich and delicate the Western Ghats are, and why forests need protecting.
Quick facts
- Plant: Ceropegia tamilnaduensis, found by the Botanical Survey of India.
- Insect: Allocaecilius nilgiriensis, reported by the Zoological Survey of India.
- Both come from the Western Ghats region.
Quick check: Which organisation reported the new barklouse, BSI or ZSI?
ZSI, the Zoological Survey of India.
