What is Disporopsis crispata?
Researchers recently discovered a new flowering plant species named Disporopsis crispata in Arunachal Pradesh's Changlang district, marking the first recorded occurrence of the genus Disporopsis in India.
About Disporopsis crispata:
- It is a new species of flowering plant.
- It was discovered in the Vijoynagar area, Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
- It grows on damp slopes in temperate forests dominated by mixed rhododendron and bamboo vegetation, at elevations of 2,500-2,800 metres.
- It marks the first recorded occurrence of the genus Disporopsis in India.
- The discovery is significant, as the genus Disporopsis, comprising around 12 known species, was previously recorded mainly in Myanmar, China, Taiwan, the Philippines, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
- Disporopsis crispatta is distinguished by its strongly wavy, crinkled leaf margins, reddish stems, and white-and-green flowers.
- Its stems grow between 30 and 80 cm tall, while its lance-shaped leaves measure 5–15 cm in length.
- The plant produces fleshy white fruits containing three to eight seeds.
- Researchers named the species crispata in reference to the distinctive crinkled or undulating edges of its leaves.
- The plant flowers between May and June, with fruiting recorded from July to December.
Source: New flowering plant species discovered in Arunachal, first of its genus in India