Rare Flower Species found in Arunachal - Biodiversity blooms in Dibang Valley!

Somewhere in Arunachal, the quiet corners of the forests still hold secrets. In the remote Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, one such secret has just come to light—a rare and beautiful plant species named Cremanthodium Kalaiselviae, discovered by botanist Dr Vikas Kumar, head of CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT). This rare discovery in today’s time shows us the rich ecosystem that Arunachal Pradesh is home to and reminds us of the urgency to protect and preserve it!

It is no secret that Dibang Valley, in Arunachal, is home to some of the rarest and un-discovered species of flora and fauna. Home to stunning landscapes and remote untouched ecosystems, the valley has long been a treasure trove for Botanists & Researchers to unravel the mysteries of Arunachal. Dr Vikas Kumar, a renowned Botanist whose passion for conservation and botanical exploration has driven his illustrious career, put together a team and after conducting extensive field study, ventured into the valley's dense forests. They were greeted by hundreds of types of flowers, but it was Cremanthodium Kalaiselviae that stood out. Eureka!

Cremanthodium Kalaiselviae is a part of the Daisy family (Asteraceae), the same family that includes sunflowers and marigolds. Here are some of the characteristics we know so far:

The flower is yellow in colour and bell-shaped.

It grows in cold, mountainous environments, typically above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet).

It grows low to the ground, like many alpine flowers that need to survive cold winds and snow.

Its petals are arranged in a drooping pattern, which helps protect it from harsh mountain weather.

Dibang Valley, part of the Eastern Himalayas, is home to many rare species of plants and animals. Its rich biodiversity is a treasure, but it is also delicate and under constant threat. Human activities like deforestation, hunting, pollution and unplanned development have a major impact on the valley’s wildlife and plant life. Climate change is making things worse by disrupting weather patterns and threatening species that are sensitive to temperature and rainfall changes.

Dibang Valley - Nature's Paradise in Arunachal

But there is still hope. Each one of us can make a difference with small, everyday actions. Simple steps like using less plastic, recycling, saving water and electricity, and planting native trees can go a long way. When we care for nature, nature cares for us.

The story of Cremanthodium Kalaiselviae is a reminder of the untapped wonders that still lie hidden in the folds of our planet. Dr Vikas’s discovery is a beautiful reminder that nature still has surprises left for us. But it also carries a responsibility—to preserve, to conserve, and to pass on these gifts to the next generation.