New species of Leopard’s bane discovered in Tawang; first of its kind from Northeast India

Researchers from the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology in Arunachal Pradesh have announced the discovery of a new plant species in the high-altitude wilderness of Tawang district. Named Doronicum sanctum, the species belongs to the sunflower family. Found at an elevation of around 4,086 metres above sea level, the discovery was made during a botanical survey of the Himalayan biodiversity hotspot.

This find is significant as it marks the first time a member of the Doronicum genus, commonly known as Leopard's bane, has been documented in Northeast India, with all previous Indian records restricted to the western Himalayan regions. The researchers identified the new species through field collection and laboratory analysis, comparing the specimens against existing herbarium records and global botanical literature.

Doronicum sanctum is distinguished by unique physical traits such as pubescent ray cypselae, a caducous pappus, dilated flower stalks, and flat, lance-shaped green bracts. The species name "sanctum" derives from the Latin word for "holy" or "sacred," reflecting its type locality near the Chumi Gyatse Holy Waterfalls, a site revered by the local population.

Despite its striking yellow flowers and heart-shaped leaves, the species appears to be extremely rare, with a small population of only 10 to 12 individuals observed at the site. Researchers have provisionally assessed the conservation status as Data Deficient, emphasizing the need for further exploration and conservation in this ecologically sensitive region of the Eastern Himalayas.