New Plant Species Discovered in Nagaland : Hoya nagaensis

• A new plant species named Hoya nagaensis has been discovered in Nagaland, in the Kavunho Community Reserved Forest of Phek district.
• This discovery highlights the importance of community-conserved forests, which still contain rich but under-documented biodiversity.

How was the species discovered?

• The research was led by scientists from the Department of Forestry, Nagaland University.
• The team conducted extensive field surveys, collected plant specimens, and carried out comparative taxonomic studies to identify the species.
• The research findings were published in the prestigious international journal “Kew Bulletin.”

Characteristics and Conservation Status

• Hoya nagaensis has distinctive leaves and flowers, which clearly differentiate it from other species of the Hoya genus.
• The species has been found in a very limited geographical area, indicating that it may fall under the “Critically Endangered” category.

Significance of the Discovery

• Community-protected forests in Nagaland have traditionally been well preserved, and this discovery shows that they still harbor previously unknown plant diversity.
• The finding can help strengthen community-based biodiversity conservation strategies and encourage further scientific exploration in the region.