In a significant botanical discovery within the sacred groves of Kerala, India, a team of botanists comprising C. N. Manju, P. P. Nishida, P. M. Vineesha, B. Mufeed from the University of Calicut and K. P. Rajesh from the Zamorin’s Guruvayurappan College has identified a new leafy liverwort species, Cylindrocolea devendrae Manju & P.P.Nishida. This finding, published in the Journal of Bryology, adds a new dimension to the diverse flora of Kerala’s ecologically crucial regions and underlines the critical role of sacred groves in biodiversity conservation.
Kerala’s sacred groves are unique ecological habitats. Revered by local communities for their religious and cultural importance, these small, protected vegetation patches stand as biodiversity hotspots amidst human-modified landscapes. They provide crucial ecosystem services as sanctuaries for various plant and animal species.
Cylindrocolea devendrae was discovered during a detailed bryological survey in the Edayilakkadukavu and Poyilkavu groves in Northern Kerala. This species distinguishes itself within its genus with a radially symmetrical stem, thin-walled cortical cells, and an uncommon 12 + 9 cell arrangement in its seta. This is a notable variation from the typical 4 + 4 cell arrangement observed in other species of the genus.
Employing sophisticated morpho-anatomical analysis techniques, the research team revealed distinct characteristics of Cylindrocolea devendrae. It was found to be without underleaves, possessing a 3-lobed subentire perianth mouth and 4- or 5-lobed bracts. These unique features significantly depart from standard liverwort morphology and open new perspectives for understanding plant adaptation and evolutionary processes in these ecosystems.
The species honours Dr. Devendra Kumar Singh, a distinguished Indian bryologist. Primarily found as epiphytes on tree trunks, Cylindrocolea devendrae shares its environment with other significant species, reflecting the ecological diversity of Kerala’s sacred groves.
The discovery of Cylindrocolea devendrae highlights the conservation importance of sacred groves, particularly in heavily populated and environmentally transformed coastal and lowland areas. Ongoing research in these regions has revealed a rich diversity of over 100 bryophyte species, akin to the biodiversity found in the Western Ghats.
The research was collaborative, with support from the University of Calicut and the Zamorin’s Guruvayurappan College. It exemplifies the importance of academic and research institutions in advancing our knowledge of the natural world.
The unveiling of Cylindrocolea devendrae in the sacred groves of Kerala is a testament to the untapped reservoirs of unique and rare biodiversity these areas represent. This discovery enhances our understanding of liverwort diversity and underscores the necessity of preserving these sacred groves. They serve not just as cultural or spiritual symbols but as crucial ecological assets, housing rare and endemic species that are integral to the ecological balance of our planet.
References:
- Manju, C.N., Nishida, P.P., et al. (2023). Cylindrocolea devendrae Manju & P.P.Nishida (Cephaloziellaceae) a new leafy liverwort species from virgin low-elevation sacred groves in Kerala, India. Journal of Bryology.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/03736687.2023.2274663
