New Tuber Species Discovered in Kerala’s Wayanad

Quick Summary

• Researchers in Kerala have identified a new species of edible tuber, named Dioscorea balakrishnanii, found in the evergreen forests of Wayanad district in the Western Ghats.
• The tuber is locally known as chola kizhangu among the kattunayikar tribes and has an excellent flavor when cooked.
• Named after V. Balakrishnan,secretary of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board,for his contributions to biodiversity conservation and taxonomy in South India.
• The species was discovered by researchers from M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, Sanatana Dharma College, and Kerala Agricultural University.
• Observed continuously for ten years to record male and female flower differences; holds potential for food security due to its low glycemic index and medicinal applications.
• Wayanad hosts 23 forms of more than 14 species within the Dioscoreaceae family including this newly described variety.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The revelation of Dioscorea balakrishnanii highlights India’s rich biodiversity within sensitive ecosystems like Wayanad’s Western Ghats region.This identification not only reinforces the need for systematic documentation but also underscores a broader opportunity: leveraging unique plant resources for food security purposes amidst climate challenges while promoting conservation efforts together.

Moreover, such findings introduce promising avenues for cultivating crops with health benefits-like a low glycemic index-to support public health while being mindful of regional ecological balance through local tribal knowledge integration.

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