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Source-This post on Thismia malayana has been created based on the article “Remarkable new plant species steals nutrients from underground fungi” published in “The Eurekalert” on 7 June 2024.
Why in News?
Scientists have discovered a new plant species called Thismia malayana. It is distinctive plant species which steals nutrients from underground fungi.
About Thismia malayana
| About | Description |
| About | 1. This plant was found in the tropical rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia. 2. The discovery was made by botanists from the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) in collaboration with local naturalists and stakeholders. |
| Locations | Thismia malayana was identified in two locations: i) The lowlands of Gunung Angsi Forest Reserve in Negeri Sembilan. ii) The hilly dipterocarp forests of Gunung Benom in the Tengku Hassanal Wildlife Reserve, Pahang. |
| Unique Characteristics | 1. Thismia malayana is part of a group of plants known as mycoheterotrophs. 2. Unlike most plants, mycoheterotrophs do not perform photosynthesis. 3. Instead, they act as parasites, stealing nutrients from fungi on their roots. 4. It takes advantage of the mycorrhizal symbiosis, which is usually a mutually beneficial relationship between colonising fungi and a plant’s root system. 5. This plant thrives in low-light conditions of dense forest understories. 6. Its flowers are pollinated by fungus gnats and other small insects. 7. The plant is around 2 cm long. 8. It is typically found hidden in leaf litter and growing near tree roots or old rotten logs. |
| Conservation Status | 1. Thismia malayana is very sensitive to environmental changes. 2. It has been classified as Vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List criteria. 3. Its limited distribution and the potential threat from trampling due to its proximity to hiking trails highlight the need for continued conservation efforts. |
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
