Canscora agni

Canscora agni Latest News

Researchers recently discovered a new plant species, named Canscora agni, in the fire-prone savannas of western India. 

About Canscora agni

• It is a new species of plant.
• It was found on Sus Hill in Maharashtra’s Pune district.
• Discovered in the fire-prone savannas of western India, this tiny plant highlights the often-misunderstood role that natural fires play in keeping ecosystems healthy.  
  • In the ancient Indian savannas, frequent natural fires are a vital force of nature that clear away overgrown woody vegetation, allowing native grasses and unique dwarf plants like C. agni to thrive.  
• The specific name ‘agni’ means ‘fire’ in several Indian languages, including Marathi.
• Canscora agni is a small herb with white petals and uniquely winged stems.     
• It has several unique characteristics that easily differentiate it from its closest relative, Canscora alata. 
  • While C. alata can grow into a tall herb up to 60 centimetres, C. agni is a dwarf herb reaching a maximum of only 10 centimetres.
  • It also features fewer and shorter leaves, measuring up to 11 millimetres long. 
  • Closer examination of its stems reveals that the wing-like structures are uneven, being wider below the flowers and narrower towards the stem. 
  • It has special minute glandular hairs on its leaves, a shorter ovary, and distinct web-like (reticulate) veins on the wide wings of its flower base (the calyx), all traits that are completely absent in its taller cousin. 
• The researchers suggest classifying Canscora agni as ‘Critically Endangered’ because it has been found in only one tiny location.

News: RM

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