Description
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Context:
A study highlights endangered Rhododendron wattii in Nagaland, while new orchid species has been recorded for the first time in Manipur. The only other Rhododendron wattii was recorded in the Nagaland section of the valley was felled by locals for firewood in a 2012-13 survey.
About Rhododendron wattii
- Species Name: Rhododendron wattii
- Family: Ericaceae
- Common Name: Rhododendron
- Endemic Regions: Rhododendron wattii is native to the northeastern states of India, specifically Nagaland and Manipur.
- First Collection: it was 1st discovered by Sir George Watt during his survey of the Japfu Hill range in Nagaland between 1882-85.
- Tree Size: A small tree that can grow up to a height of 25 feet.
- Flowering Season: From end of February to April.
- Fruiting Season: From April to December.
- Flower Description: The flowers are mostly in trusses of 18-25 blooms, pink with darker flecks and purplish basal blotches.
- Habitat: Prefers higher elevations because it is found around 2,600 meters above sea level, particularly in the Dzukou Valley which extends into Manipur.
● Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable.
- Critically Endangered: According to Ashiho Asosü Mao from the Botanical Survey of India.
- Threats:
- Poor seedling survivability: Seedlings have a low survival rate, despite producing many seeds.
- Anthropogenic Activities: Human interference, including tree felling for firewood.
- Wildfires: In 2020-21, a significant portion of Dzukou Valley was consumed by fire, furthermore endangering the species.
- Pollination: The flowers are primarily pollinated by fire-tailed sunbirds and bumblebees.
Related New Botanical Discovery in Manipur
While Rhododendron wattii faces decline in Nagaland, researchers in Manipur also have discovered a new orchid species: Phalaenopsis wilsonii.
- Location: it was Found in Chakumei village in Senapati district, Manipur.
- Significance: This is the 9th species of the Phalaenopsis genus found in Manipur.
- Orchid Family: Orchidaceae, which contains 80 globally accepted species, 18 of which are known from India.
Source: TheHindu
PRACTICE QUESTION
Q. Consider the following statements regarding Rhododendron wattii:
- It is endemic to Nagaland and Manipur.
- It has a high seedling survival rate.
- Its primary pollinators are fire-tailed sunbirds and bumblebees.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
● Statement 1 is correct: Rhododendron wattii is endemic to Nagaland and Manipur, as it is native to the northeastern states of India.
● Statement 2 is incorrect: The species has a low seedling survival rate, which makes it vulnerable to environmental threats.
● Statement 3 is correct: The primary pollinators of Rhododendron wattii are fire-tailed sunbirds and bumblebees.
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