Description

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Context :

Recently, Uniyala keralensis has been identified. It is a new species. It is named after the State of Kerala.
It belongs to the Asteraceae
It is endemic to southwest India.

About Uniyala Keralensis:

Uniyala keralensis is small to large shrub.
It can grow up to 1 to 3 meters in height.
The plant shows attractive light purple florets.
It has :
- Larger leaves
- Fairly long petioles (the slender stalk joining the leaf to the stem)
- Fewer lateral veins on the leaves compared to other species.

Flowering and Fruiting:

Flowering and fruiting occur between August and April.

Habitat:

It is mainly Found in open areas on the western mountain slopes of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve (ABR).
It thrives at elevations ranging from 700 to 1400 meters.

Population and Conservation Status:

The current population has 5000 individuals across 4 subpopulations.
These subpopulations occupy an area of 250 square km
According to the IUCN Red List Criteria (2024), Uniyala keralensis is assessed as Data Deficient (DD).
This means that more information is needed for a proper conservation assessment.

About Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve:

Biosphere Reserve	Agasthyamala
About Agasthyamala	Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, located in the southern part of the Western Ghats in India. The reserve boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, including rare species, along with lush forests, sparkling waterfalls, and majestic mountains.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve	Agasthyamala was added to UNESCO's ‘World Network of Biosphere Reserves’ in March 2016. It is known for its rich biodiversity and the presence of rare medicinal herbs.
UNESCO Designation	Agasthyamala is a 1868 meter tall peak located in the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It lies in the Western Ghats of South India near the border between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Agasthyamala's Significance	The peak is named after the great Hindu Sage Agasthya, whose statue stands at the top. Agasthyamala is also a popular pilgrimage site and is known for its medicinal air, believed to have healing qualities.
Medicinal Plants	Around 2,000 medicinal plants, used in Ayurvedic treatments, are found in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, making it a hotspot for medicinal flora.

Source: TH

Practice Question

Q. According to the IUCN Red List, what is the conservation status of Uniyala keralensis?

A) Endangered
B) Vulnerable
C) Data Deficient
D) Least Concern

Answer: C) Data Deficient

Explanation: Uniyala keralensis is assessed as Data Deficient (DD) according to the IUCN Red List (2024). This means more information is needed for a proper conservation assessment.