New Plant Species Discovered in Manas National Park, Assam

Discovery of Osbeckia assamensis

Guwahati, Oct 26: A new species belonging to the Melastomataceae family, named Osbeckia assamensis, has been identified by two researchers in Manas National Park, highlighting the region's rich biodiversity.

This newly identified species shares morphological traits with Osbeckia nayarii GS Giri but is distinct in several aspects, including its branching structure, hairy stem, leaf characteristics, and inflorescence comprising 30-35 flowers. Additionally, it features a hairy calyx margin and intersepalar emergences on the hypanthium, setting it apart from other Osbeckia species that have tetramerous flowers.

The research was conducted by Prof Namita Nath from Gauhati University and Barnali Das, an assistant professor at Pragjyotish College. Their findings, which include a comprehensive taxonomic description and photographic documentation, have been published in the peer-reviewed journal Phytotaxa.

Osbeckia Linnaeus, which includes 45 recognized species and six varieties, is primarily found in the southeastern regions of Asia. This genus is part of the Melastomateae tribe, which is widely distributed across tropical regions, with South America hosting the majority of its species.

According to the researchers, the new species was discovered during ongoing studies of the Melastomataceae family in Assam. They noted that Osbeckia assamensis thrives in large groups across the grasslands of Manas National Park. It bears similarities to O nayarii, characterized by its quadrangular stem and tetramerous flowers. After thorough examination of taxonomic literature and morphological characteristics, the researchers confirmed it as a new species.

Osbeckia can be differentiated from other members of the Melastome family by its unique hair types, bristles, and surface emergences on the hypanthium, as well as its isomorphic stamens and ribbed capsules with dehiscent apical pores.

Prof Nath emphasized that extensive field surveys conducted from 2021 to 2025 were crucial in collecting specimens resembling those of the Osbeckia genus. These specimens were compared with similar species found in India and neighboring countries.

Following the herbarium protocols established by Jain and Rao (1977), voucher specimens were prepared and stored at GUBH. The researchers physically examined voucher specimens from the Osbeckia genus and related genera at ASSAM and GUBH, while digital examinations were conducted for specimens at CAL. Fresh samples were also analyzed to assess their morphological traits, with type specimens submitted to GUBH.