A new orchid species, Gastrodia indica, discovered in Assam, is India's first cleistogamous orchid, increasing Gastrodia species to ten.
Gastrodia indica, a cleistogamous orchid, was discovered in Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary, Sikkim, marking a significant botanical find.
This is the first known cleistogamous orchid in India, with flowers that remain closed for self-pollination.
Gastrodia indica is holomycotrophic, relying entirely on fungi for nutrients, and grows in moist, decaying leaf litter.
Fewer than 100 Gastrodia indica plants have been observed, making them vulnerable to environmental disturbances and habitat loss.
Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in protecting diverse wildlife and plant species, including rare orchids like Gastrodia indica.