Tetrataenium paikadae

Category: Environment, Botany & Biodiversity | GS Paper III

SEO Title: Tetrataenium paikadae: New Plant Species Discovered in Kerala's Western Ghats

UPSC Notes

Tetrataenium paikadae is a plant species described from Kerala in a scientific paper published in February 2026. It belongs to the carrot family, Apiaceae.

  • Discovery region: Eravikulam National Park, Idukki district, Kerala.

  • Plant family: Apiaceae, which also includes carrot, coriander and parsley.

  • Scientific publication: Nordic Journal of Botany, first published on 8 February 2026.

  • Distinctive features: Hairy stems, broadly ovate or rounded leaflets, long petioles and hairy leaf sheaths.

  • Flower characteristics: Symmetrical flowers and distinctive features of the flower clusters.

  • Fruit characteristics: The fruit has four commissural vittae, which are oil-containing secretory canals.

  • Scientific importance: Adds to knowledge of the Western Ghats' plant diversity and highlights the importance of taxonomic research.

  • Conservation relevance: Newly described endemic or narrowly distributed plants may require habitat assessment and protection.

Key Pointers

  • Species: Tetrataenium paikadae.

  • Family: Apiaceae.

  • State: Kerala.

  • Protected area associated with its collection: Eravikulam National Park.

  • Remember the distinction between a newly described species and a species newly introduced into an area.