Mysterious Orchid Unveiled: A New Species Blooms in Arunachal Pradesh's Wilds

Arunachal Pradesh, a biodiversity hotspot in India, has once again captivated the botanical world with the discovery of a captivating new orchid species. Named Epipogium sessanum, this elusive flower has been formally recorded within the lush confines of the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, adding another jewel to the region's already sparkling flora.

This remarkable finding comes courtesy of a dedicated team of botanists, including Dr.

Krishna Chowlu, Dr. Gyana Ranjan Rout, Dilip Kumar Singh, and Pramod Dattatraya Chavan. Their painstaking exploration and identification efforts have brought this fascinating plant to light, contributing significantly to our understanding of the Eastern Himalayas' unique ecosystems.

The species bears a fitting tribute to its origins, named after the renowned Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, which itself forms a crucial part of the larger Eaglenest complex.

This geographical nomenclature underscores the rich horticultural heritage of the area and its importance as a sanctuary for countless unique plant forms.

Intriguingly, while this orchid is new to scientific classification, its story hints at a past encounter. An individual of this species was first collected in Assam back in 1993.

However, it was then misidentified as Epipogium roseum by its initial discoverer. The meticulous research undertaken by the current team has now conclusively shown that Epipogium sessanum possesses distinct characteristics that set it apart, firmly establishing its status as a unique species.

What makes Epipogium sessanum particularly fascinating is its lifestyle.

It belongs to a rare group of plants known as mycoheterotrophic orchids. Unlike most plants that produce their own food through photosynthesis, these orchids lack chlorophyll. Instead, they form an intricate, clandestine partnership with fungi in the soil, relying entirely on these underground networks for their nutrients.

This unique dependency makes them incredibly sensitive to their environment and often difficult to spot, living a hidden existence among the leaf litter.

The orchid was observed thriving at an altitude of 1,200 meters, nestled amongst the dense forest floor where fallen leaves provide a rich, fertile bed.

Its discovery was officially published in the esteemed journal Rheedea, bringing international recognition to this significant botanical event.

The unveiling of Epipogium sessanum serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible, yet often unexplored, biodiversity harbored within Arunachal Pradesh.

It highlights the urgent need for continued scientific exploration, robust conservation strategies, and the protection of these pristine habitats to safeguard such irreplaceable natural treasures for future generations.