Chamaegastrodia reiekensis

• Newly Discovered Species:

• Chamaegastrodia reiekensis is a new species of orchid discovered by scientists from Mizoram University and Manipur University in the forests of Northeast India.

• Name Origin:
  The orchid is named after its type locality, Reiek, a scenic mountain destination in Mizoram. Reiek is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as a natural habitat for this rare species.

  Genus and Characteristics:
  This orchid belongs to the Chamaegastrodia genus, which is known for its holomycotrophic nature. Unlike most plants, C. reiekensis lacks chlorophyll and leaves and is incapable of photosynthesis. It survives by forming a symbiotic relationship with underground fungi, from which it derives all of its nutrients.

  Global Count:
  With the discovery of C. reiekensis, the global count of species in the Chamaegastrodia genus has increased to eight. These species are typically found in various regions across East Asia and Southeast Asia, including the Eastern Himalayas, South-Central China, Japan, Korea, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand.

  Distribution:
  Interestingly, all of the Indian representatives of this genus have been found exclusively in Northeast India, making this region a hotspot for such unique species.

Habitat and Ecological Context

• Location and Environment:
  C. reiekensis was discovered in the Reiek forest, a lush region with a multi-layered canopy, featuring tall emergent trees and dense understorey vegetation. The habitat provides ideal conditions for various rare plant species to thrive.

  Elevation and Climate:
  The orchid was found at an elevation of 1,500 meters, in moist, humus-rich soil near bamboo clumps. The region experiences temperatures between 20–28°C and receives annual rainfall of 200–250 cm, which supports tropical vegetation year-round.

Floral Cycle and Conservation Status

• Flowering and Fruiting:
  C. reiekensis flowers from August to September and fruits from September to October, making it a brief presence in the forest during these periods.

  Conservation Status:
  The species has been provisionally listed as Critically Endangered (CR) under the IUCN criteria. This designation is due to its rarity, small size, and camouflaged appearance, which makes it very difficult to detect on the forest floor. Furthermore, the orchid's fleeting appearance during flowering and fruiting periods adds to the challenge of studying and preserving it.