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5March 2022.
Introduction:
Glycosmis albicarpa is the recently discovered species of gin berry.
About Discovery:
- Glycosmis albicarpa was discovered by scientists of the Botanical Survey of India (BSI).
- It was discovered as undergrowth in Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli semi-evergreen forests at the Panagudi forest section of the Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary.
- It was found as a single population that covers around 2 sq. km. area.
- The findings regarding the discovery are published in the Nordic Journal of Botany, Sweden.
About Glycosmis albicarpa
- Glycosmis albicarpa is a species belonging to the Orange family, Rutaceae.
- It is characterized by short and broad leaves and large white fruits.
- It is an evergreen small tree and is endemic to the southern Western Ghats.
- This species is used by indigenous people and tribals for medicinal purposes.
- It is also a popular edible fruit, characterized by its ‘gin aroma’.
- The plants of this species also provide shelter to larvae of butterflies and other species.
About Botanical Survey of India (BSI)
- Botanical Survey of India (BSI) was founded in the pre-independence era by the East India Company (EIC) in 1890. It is located in Kolkata, West Bengal. Its parent organization is the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
- It undertakes survey, research, and conservation of plant wealth of India. It collects and maintains gene banks of endangered and vulnerable plant species.
India is endowed with rich biodiversity, which is now at threat from anthropogenic pressures. Urgent conservation measures are needed to prevent the loss of unique biodiversity.