News Excerpt:

A new species of flowering plant from the Ceropegia genus, discovered at Vishalgad Fort in Kolhapur, has been named Ceropegia shivrayiana in honor of the legendary Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

More about the Discovery: 

• The research, conducted by a team of botanists from Kolhapur and Nashik, has been published in the international journal Phytotaxa.
• The team has been studying the flora of Vishalgad Fort for the past six years. 
• In August 2023, they identified a distinct plant from the Ceropegia genus, commonly known as "kandil pushp," at the fort. 
• After thorough examination, it was determined that the plant represents a new species, leading to its official recognition and documentation.

Ceropegia shivrayiana:

• It is a rare and distinctive plant native to rocky terrains, thriving in nutrient-poor soils. Belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family, it features unique tubular flowers designed to attract moths for pollination. 
• This species plays a vital role in its ecosystem, similar to other medicinally significant plants within its family.
  However, Ceropegia shivrayiana faces significant threats from habitat loss, making its conservation crucial. 
• Protecting this species not only preserves its ecological role but also contributes to the overall biodiversity of the region.
• Its survival is essential for maintaining the delicate balance in its native habitat, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.

Significance of the discovery:

• The discovery of Ceropegia shivrayiana highlights the rich botanical heritage of the Sahyadri mountain range, where Vishalgad Fort is situated. 
• This discovery not only contributes to the botanical knowledge of India but also marks Shivaji Maharaj's contribution who recognized the strategic importance of forts and their surrounding forests in the defense of his kingdom. 
• The research team emphasized that the discovery of Ceropegia shivrayiana is a reminder of the ecological importance of protecting the biodiversity in and around historical sites like Vishalgad Fort.