Kerala researchers described a new bryophyte genus, Indocolea, with the species Indocolea devendrae; the discovery was published in the Journal of Bryology on 15 June 2026.
Discovery and publication
- Research team and institutions: University of Calicut and Guruvayurappan College researchers led the study.
- Publication: June 2026 issue of the Journal of Bryology (UK-based, peer‑reviewed).
- Funding: Department of Science and Technology (DST) Core Research Grant and FIST Scheme supported the work.
Taxonomy and habit
- Genus and species: Indocolea devendrae (named after Dr Devendra Kumar Singh, BSI).
- Plant group: A liverwort genus within bryophytes (non-vascular, poikilohydric land plants).
- Substrate: Epibiotic on the polypore fungus Phellinus fastuosus that develops on tree trunks.
Geographic occurrence
- Districts recorded: Kasaragod, Kannur (Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary) and Kozhikode in northern Kerala.
Context in Indian bryology
- Rarity: Indocolea is only the fifth bryophyte genus described from India.
- Earlier Indian bryophyte genera: Aitchisoniella (1914), Sewardiella (1915), Indopottia (2013), Ramudaria (2020).
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Botanical nomenclature: Valid publication and name assignment follow the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi and plants (ICN).
- Botanical Survey of India (BSI): Apex statutory organisation for plant taxonomy and national floristic studies.