STELLARIA BENGALENSIS DISCOVERED IN KALIMPONG, WEST BENGAL

PRELIMS BITS 

A new plant species, Stellaria bengalensis, has been found in Sangser forest, Kalimpong at altitudes of 2,245–2,450 meters.

Key Details

• Discovery: By researchers Arya S. and Harsh Singh, published in Phytotaxa.
• Features:
  • Small herb (8–10.5 cm tall) with white flowers.
  • Flowers from May to September.
• Habitat: Thrives in muddy slopes, indicating a unique ecological niche.

Conservation Status

• Listed as Data Deficient by the IUCN, requiring further study.
• Part of 22 Stellaria species found in India, mostly in the Himalayas.

This discovery highlights India’s biodiversity and the need for conservation efforts in the Himalayan region.