Canscora agni

Why in News?

Recently, researchers from IISER (Indian Institute of Science Education and Research) Pune and the Savanna Science Foundation discovered a new plant species.

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name – Canscora agni.
• Family – Gentianaceae.
• Genus – Canscora.
• Native Range – Indian savannas (Western India).
• Closest Relative – Canscora alata.
• Nomenclature - The plant was named agni ('fire' in several Indian languages, including Marathi, the local language of the discovery site).
• It is to challenge the common misconception that all fires are destructive.

Key Characteristics

• Growth – Dwarf herb, maximum height 10 cm (vs. C. alata up to 60 cm).
• Leaves – Fewer, shorter, up to 11 mm long.
• Stems – Uneven wing‑like structures, wider below flowers, narrower towards stem.
• Flowers – White petals; calyx with distinct reticulate (web‑like) veins.
• Unique Traits – Minute glandular hairs on leaves, shorter ovary, winged stems.
• Habitat – Fire‑prone savannas; thrives in open grassy areas maintained by periodic natural fires.
• Fire Adaptation - C. agni thrives specifically in mesic savannas characterized by frequent surface fires (occurring every 1 to 5 years).
• Conservation Threat – Fire suppression and large‑scale tree planting are harming the open savanna habitat this species needs.

Reference

Research Matters | C.agni