Neha BaruahIn a remarkable botanical discovery, a new species of flowering plant, Ceropegia Shivrayiana, has been unearthed in the Vishalgad region of Kolhapur. This find was meticulously documented in a research paper published in the esteemed journal Phytotaxa, underscoring the rich biodiversity and ecological significance of Vishalgad Fort.
The Research Team Behind the Discovery
This discovery is credited to a dedicated team of botanists comprising Akshay Jangam, Ratan More, and Dr. Nilesh Pawar from New College, Kolhapur, in collaboration with Dr. Sharad Kamble and Professor Dr. S. R. Yadav from Shivaji University. Over the past six years, Jangam and Pawar have been tirelessly studying the flora of Vishalgad Fort, which culminated in the identification of this new species.
The Cultural Significance of the Name
The newly discovered plant has been aptly named Ceropegia shivrayiana in honor of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, reflecting the deep cultural heritage of the region. The researchers chose this name as a tribute to Shivaji Maharaj’s recognition of the ecological importance of the forts and their natural surroundings.
Botanical Context and Related Discoveries
In August 2024, another species of Ceropegia was identified in the same region, showcasing the area’s botanical richness. Dr. Kamble, a renowned authority on the Ceropegia genus, suggested that further studies could confirm the uniqueness of this new species. The discovery of Ceropegia shivrayiana further emphasizes the exceptional biodiversity found at Vishalgad Fort and highlights the critical need to preserve such ecologically valuable areas.
Insights into Ceropegia Shivrayiana
Ceropegia shivrayiana is a rare and intriguing plant species endemic to India. It is distinguished by its unique, tubular flowers, which are specially adapted to attract moths for pollination. This plant thrives in rocky terrains and is capable of growing in nutrient-poor soils. Belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family, which includes many medicinal plants, Ceropegia shivrayiana is of significant ecological importance. Its conservation is essential due to the ongoing threat of habitat loss, making it a vital subject for further ecological research. Additionally, its unusual floral structure has piqued the interest of plant enthusiasts and researchers alike.
Neha Baruah
