Introduction to Gastrodia Indica: A Rare Cleistogamous Orchid Discovered in India
The Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary in Sikkim, India, is home to a recently found species of orchid, Gastrodia indica. Botanist Madhusudan Khanal made the finding, which adds a great deal to India’s botanical data. Interestingly, Gastrodia indica is the first species of its kind to be found in India because of its cleistogamous character.
Discovery and Characteristics of Gastrodia Indica
Finding the Rare Cleistogamous Gastrodia Indica Orchid
In the refuge, Gastrodia was discovered between 1,950 and 2,100 meters above sea level. With this finding, the Gastrodia genus currently has 10 identified species in India. Khanal prepared herbarium specimens to preserve this important discovery for further studies.
Understanding Cleistogamy in Gastrodia Indica and Other Orchids
The distinctive feature of cleistogamous plants—like Gastrodia —is that the flowers never open. Cleistogamous flowers stay closed, allowing for self-pollination, in contrast to chasmogamous the flowers that open for pollination. When there are few external pollinators in a given habitat, this adaptation is very helpful.
Ecological Importance and Habitat of Gastrodia Indica
Holomycotrophic Nature and Fungal Dependency of Gastrodia Indica
Because it lacks chlorophyll, Gastrodia indica is a holomycotrophic plant, meaning it gets all of its nutrition from fungus. Its habitat is wet decaying leaf litter, which is ideal for its growth. This species often occurs next to trees like Acer campbelli and Magnolia doltsopa. Gastrodia indica is susceptible to environmental changes, which highlights the need for conservation efforts given that there have only been less than 100 plants documented.
The Role of Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary in Conserving Rare Orchids
Biodiversity Conservation at Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary
An important place for the protection of many different species, including rare and endangered plants and animals, is the Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary. Because of the sanctuary’s height, many kinds of ecosystems are supported, allowing for the survival of beings like the Himalayan Black Bear and Red Panda as well as sensitive flora like Gastrodia . In addition, the sanctuary provides stunning vistas of the Khangchendzonga mountain range.
Orchids: A Diverse and Fascinating Plant Family
Global Distribution and Unique Features of Orchid Species
Surviving over 25,000 years, orchids are one of the biggest families of blooming plants, occurring on every continent save Antarctica. Certain orchids have developed special defenses against pollinators, such impersonating female insects. The only orchid species that is grown for food is the vanilla orchid (Vanilla planifolia). Orchid seeds have become known for their extended seedling life, and they frequently need certain fungus to germinate. Because they don’t have chlorophyll, species like the Ghost Orchid rely only on their hosts to survive.
The finding of Gastrodia highlights the value of safeguarding such unique habitats in addition to contributing to the rich biodiversity of the Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary. Gastrodia ,a cleistogamous orchid, offers important insights about how plants adapt to certain environments.
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