CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
A previously unknown tree species from the genus Garcinia has been discovered in the forests of Assam’s Baksa district. Named Garcinia kusumae, the species honours Kusum Devi, mother of renowned botanist Jatindra Sarma, in recognition of her support for his academic journey. This marks the fourth instance where Sarma has named a plant after a family member a rare and remarkable record in Indian botany.
Discovery And Naming
The new species was located in Bamunbari, Baksa district, during a botanical survey. Collected following standard herbarium procedures, the specimen’s unique features led to an in-depth examination. Garcinia kusumae is a dioecious, evergreen tree that can grow up to 18 meters tall. It flowers between February and April, with fruits ripening from May to June. The species name pays tribute to Sarma’s mother, reflecting both emotional and scientific value.
Botanical Features
This species is notable for several distinct characteristics:
Each flower cluster (fascicle) can contain up to 15 male (staminate) flowers
It has fewer stamens per flower compared to related species, except Garcinia assamica
The fruit produces a blackish, resin-like secretion
Although it shares some traits with species like Garcinia assamica, Garcinia cowa, and Garcinia succifolia, its morphology sets it apart. Garcinia kusumae is considered endemic to the tropical rainforests of Northeast India.
Traditional And Medicinal Uses
Locally, the fruit of Garcinia kusumae is valued for both culinary and medicinal purposes:
The sun-dried pulp is used to prepare a refreshing sherbet mixed with salt and sugar, effective against heatstroke and dehydration
The fruit is a popular ingredient in traditional fish curries
Folk medicine uses it to manage diabetes and dysentery
The aril (seed covering) is eaten raw with salt, mustard oil, and chillies, delivering a tangy-sweet flavour
About Genus Garcinia
The genus Garcinia, part of the Clusiaceae family, consists of around 414 species of trees and shrubs found primarily in tropical regions across Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australasia. Known for its rich floral diversity and potential health benefits, Garcinia species are commonly found in lowland rainforests. India is home to 33 species and seven varieties, with Assam alone contributing 12 species and three varieties to the genus.
Significance Of Discovery
The identification of Garcinia kusumae adds to the rich biodiversity of Assam and emphasizes the importance of botanical exploration in understudied regions. The gesture of naming the plant after a family member highlights the deep personal commitment involved in scientific discovery. Furthermore, the species could offer new insights into medicinal research and the ecological value of India’s native flora.
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