New Orchid Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh, India

A new orchid species, Gastrochilus pechei, has been identified in Arunachal Pradesh, India, marking a significant addition to the region’s rich biodiversity. Previously thought to exist only in Myanmar, this discovery was made by a team of researchers at an elevation of 1,200 meters in Vijoynagar, a remote administrative area bordering Myanmar.

The researchers, Vinay Kumar Sahani, Minom Pertin, and Khyanjeet Gogoi, collected specimens during a botanical expedition in September 2024. Their findings have been documented in the latest issue of Lankesteriana, a reputable international journal based in Costa Rica.

Identification and Characteristics

The identification of Gastrochilus pechei was achieved through careful examination of flower morphology, specifically the shape of the sepals and petals, alongside existing botanical literature. The genus Gastrochilus, first described in 1825, includes 77 species distributed across tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions of Asia. This particular orchid is characterized by its short axillary inflorescence, vibrant flowers, and unique reproductive structures.

The researchers noted that Gastrochilus pechei blooms during September and October, thriving in moist, evergreen rainforests, typically found on small trees near riverbanks. Prior to this discovery, a total of 22 species from the Gastrochilus genus had been recorded in India, with 15 of those found in Arunachal Pradesh.

Implications for Biodiversity and Research

The discovery of Gastrochilus pechei is significant, as it highlights the floristic similarities between Myanmar and Arunachal Pradesh. “Gastrochilus is a small genus that can easily be misidentified as other taxa. The discovery of Gastrochilus pechei in Changlang provides important evidence linking the floras of Myanmar and Arunachal Pradesh,” stated Minom Pertin.

In Myanmar, this orchid was previously identified in the town of Nuangmeng, located in Kachin’s Putao County. Often referred to as the “Orchid State of India,” Arunachal Pradesh is home to approximately 60% of India’s orchid varieties, emphasizing the region’s ecological importance.

The findings underscore the need for continued research and conservation efforts in these biodiverse regions, as they play a crucial role in understanding plant species distribution and the impacts of environmental changes. The collaboration between local researchers and conservation organizations will be vital in promoting further studies and protecting these unique ecosystems.