After a gap of 140 years, researchers have rediscovered a rare and endangered tree species, Uniyala multibracteata (locally known as Kattupoovamkurunnila), from a non-protected area of the Wagamon hills in the Western Ghats. According to the researchers, the species, believed to have become extinct, has been accidentally rediscovered.
Kattupoovamkurunnila is endemic to areas such as Wagamon, Memala, and Elappara. The species was originally discovered from Peerumade in 1880 by R.H. Beddome, a pioneer botanist who conducted plant discoveries in south India.
Jomy Augustine, former Botany Professor at Pala St. Thomas College, who led the research, says that after Beddome nobody could collect this rare plant. “It remained unknown for the last 140 years and scientists declared it as critically endangered or possibly extinct. The genus Uniyala is named to recognise the contribution of B.P Uniyal, a renowned plant taxonomist. This genus has 11 species, most of which are endemic to south India.” says Dr. Augustine.
