Uniyala Keralensis

Uniyala Keralensis

On March 18, 2025, researchers confirmed the discovery of a new plant species, Uniyala keralensis (family Asteraceae), in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala.

About Uniyala keralensis:

• Genus: Uniyala
• Plant Type: A dense shrub with light purple flowers, growing 1-3 meters tall. It flowers and fruits between August and April.
• Distinct Features: The plant has larger leaves, longer petioles, and fewer lateral veins compared to U. comorinensis and U. salviifolia.
• Distribution: Endemic to southwest India, found in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve at an elevation of 700-1,400 meters.
• Population: Approximately 5,000 individuals across 4 subpopulations spread over 250 km².
• IUCN Status: Data Deficient (DD)

Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve:

• Location: Situated in the Southern Western Ghats, spanning both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• Protected Areas: Includes Shendurney, Peppara, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.
• Biodiversity: Home to 2,254 higher plant species, including 405 endemic species, and notable wildlife like the Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaque, Bengal Tiger, and Indian Elephant.
• Tribes: Kani tribes inhabit both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• UNESCO Recognition: Recognized under the Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme in 2016.

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