Context

• Recently, a new tree species named Cryptocarya muthuvariana of the genus Cryptocarya spotted in Edamalakkudy in Idukki district has been named after a tribe from the locality.

About Cryptocarya muthuvariana

• ‘Cryptocarya muthuvariana’ has been named so to honour the Muthuvar tribe and as it was discovered in their neighbourhood.
• Belonging to the Lauraceae family, the genus Cryptocarya comprises over 300 species that are widely distributed over South America, South Africa, Madagascar, Asia, Australia and Oceania.

  

  • The researchers came across the new species during surveys on endemic and threatened species of the Western Ghats.
• Detailed studies showed it to be a distinct species.
• Cryptocarya muthuvariana’ grows to a height of about 10 to 15 m and is characterised by not-too-broad leaves.
  • The researchers managed to spot only around 10 individual trees of the species in the locality.
• The Western Ghats is home to around nine species of the genus Cryptocarya.

Source: TH

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