Relevance: GS-III (Environment & Biodiversity) | Source: The Hindu; scientific journal reports

What is the Discovery?

Parasynnemellisia khasiana is a newly discovered fungal species that also constitutes a new genus, identified from bamboo forests near Mawsynram in Meghalaya. It was found growing on dead stems of thorny bamboo (Chimonocalamus griffithianus).

Why is it Important? 

  • New genus discovery indicates the organism is evolutionarily distinct from all known fungal groups.
  • The fungus belongs to the family Phaeosphaeriaceae, but shows unique structural and genetic features.
  • Fungi play a key ecological role as decomposers, helping in nutrient recycling in forest ecosystems.

Key Significance for India

  • Highlights rich but underexplored fungal diversity of Northeast India.
  • Strengthens scientific documentation of biodiversity in bamboo-dominated ecosystems.
  • Supports conservation planning and biodiversity baselines.
UPSC Value Box

Key Facts

  • New fungal genus and species discovered from India
  • Found in bamboo forest ecosystem of Northeast India
  • New genus: Created when a species does not fit into any existing genus based on evolutionary analysis

Related Framework

  • Convention on Biological Diversity – documentation and conservation of biological diversity

Q. Parasynnemellisia khasiana is best described as:

A medicinal plant species from Northeast India
B. A new bamboo species discovered in Meghalaya
C. A newly identified fungus representing a new genus
D. An invasive fungal pathogen affecting bamboo

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Recent Posts

Start Yours at Ajmal IAS – with Mentorship StrategyDisciplineClarityResults that Drives Success

Your dream deserves this moment — begin it here.