Sapria himalayana in Arunachal: 21 Blooms After 85 Years

Rahul Somvanshi

Sapria himalayana, among world's rarest parasitic plants with crimson blooms, makes surprising comeback in Arunachal Pradesh after 85-year disappearance.

Photo Source - Danyl3 (CC BY 2.0)

British botanist William Griffith's 1836 discovery in Mishmi Hills sparked scientific interest in this parasitic species living on Tetrastigma vines.

Photo Source - Mega Hansen (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Scientists recorded 21 flowers at various growth stages near Sessa Camp, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary during winter 2023.

Photo Source - Dinesh Valke (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A unique specimen showcased 12 perigone lobes instead of standard 10, adding fresh data about this mysterious Rafflesiaceae family member.

Photo Source - B Smith (CC BY 2.0)

Winter-exclusive blooming pattern and strong odor attraction mechanism reveals complex survival strategies of this endangered species.

Photo Source - Kris Taylor (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary's biodiversity faces mounting pressure from climate shifts and invasive species at lower elevations.

Photo Source - Jonah Westrich (CC BY-NC 2.0)

Protected areas like Namdapha National Park and Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary serve as crucial habitats for remaining populations.

Photo Source - UNDP in Malaysia (All rights reserved)

Erratic flowering cycles and high seedling mortality create roadblocks in understanding this botanical enigma's lifecycle.

Photo Source - Mim Eisenberg (All rights reserved)

Conservation teams push for yearly monitoring programs to protect this species, last documented in 1938 near Rupa in Aka Hills.

Photo Source - USAID E3 (All rights reserved)

Scientific documentation of this rediscovery strengthens India's position as a vital center for rare plant conservation.

Photo Source - SA Medical Research Council (All rights reserved)