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CRINUM ANDHRICUM

15th November, 2024

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Context:

Botanists have discovered a new species of flowering plant ‘Crinum andhricum’ in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh.

Details:

Family

Amaryllidaceae.

Location

Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh.

Naming Significance

Named after Andhra Pradesh in recognition of its discovery in the state.

Crinum Species in India

16 species (including Crinum andhricum), with several endemic to India.

Distinct Features
  •  Wider, oblanceolate perianth lobes.
  • Produces between 12 and 38 flowers per cluster.
  • Pedicelled flowers (with a stalk-like structure).

Flower Characteristics
  • Waxy white flowers.
  • Blooms between April and June.

Plant Structure

Tall stem up to 100 cm.

Large, elliptic leaves with smooth, entire margins.

Habitat

Dry, rocky crevices of the Eastern Ghats.

Conservation Status (Preliminary)

Data Deficient (as per IUCN guidelines).

Environmental Threats

Limited distribution and environmental threats.

About Eastern Ghats

The Eastern Ghats is a mountain range that stretches 1,750 km along the eastern coast of the Indian peninsula.

Covering an area of 75,000 km2, it traverses the states of Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The range forms a discontinuous chain of mountains along the eastern edge of the Deccan Plateau, stretching from north of the Mahanadi River in Odisha to Vaigai Riverin Tamil Nadu at the southern end of the Indian peninsula.

The Eastern Ghats meet with the Western Ghats at Nilgiris.

The average elevation is around 600 m and Arma Konda is the highest peak in the mountains at 1,680 m.

Source:

INDIAN EXPRESS

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.The term "Crinum andhricum"was recently in the news in the context of which of the following?

(a) A newly discovered species of amphibian.

(b) A rare plant species endemic to Andhra Pradesh.

(c) A newly launched satellite by ISRO.

(d) A new variant of the coronavirus.

Answer: b

Explanation:

Crinum andhricum is a species of flowering plant endemic to the Indian subcontinent, found in regions of Andhra Pradesh. The species has been classified as critically endangered due to habitat loss and over-exploitation. However, while it is known for its unique features and habitat, there is no prominent medicinal use established in treating respiratory disorders.

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