The discovery of a new edible tuber species, Dioscorea balakrishnanii, in the Western Ghats region of Wayanad, Kerala, has opened fresh avenues in biodiversity and food security research. Identified by a team of scientists, this yam species holds promise as a nutritious food crop with a low glycemic index, potentially benefiting dietary health and local agriculture.
Discovery and Scientific Description
Dioscorea balakrishnanii was identified after extensive study by researchers from Kerala. The species was named in honour of Dr V. Balakrishnan, a noted environmentalist and biodiversity expert. The tuber, locally called ‘chola kizhangu’ by the Kattunayikar tribes, was previously undocumented in scientific literature. It grows exclusively in the shola forests of the Western Ghats, a unique ecosystem known for its rich biodiversity.
Botanical Characteristics
This yam species belongs to the Dioscoreaceae family, which includes many edible yams. Dioscorea balakrishnanii exhibits distinct male and female plants, a feature confirmed through a decade of observation. The flowers differ between sexes, aiding in accurate classification. The tubers are edible when cooked and are noted for their excellent flavour, making them suitable for cultivation and consumption.
Biodiversity Significance
The discovery marks the rich and still partially unexplored biodiversity of the Wayanad forests. Alongside Dioscorea balakrishnanii, over 14 species and 23 forms of wild tubers have been recorded in the region. Such findings tell the importance of conserving these habitats, which harbour unique plant species with potential agricultural and medicinal uses.
Potential for Food Security and Medicinal Use
Dioscorea balakrishnanii’s low glycemic index makes it a promising food crop for managing blood sugar levels. This attribute is valuable in addressing dietary health issues like diabetes. Moreover, wild relatives of cultivated yams often possess traits beneficial for crop improvement and resilience. The species may also have medicinal applications, although further research is needed.
Conservation and Future Research
The identification of this new yam species stresses the need for ongoing biodiversity documentation and conservation in the Western Ghats. Protecting such species ensures the preservation of genetic diversity vital for ecological balance and sustainable agriculture. Future studies could explore its cultivation potential and examine its role in local ecosystems and traditional knowledge.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the importance of biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats in conserving endemic species and supporting ecological balance.
- Critically examine the role of wild crop relatives in enhancing food security and agricultural sustainability in India.
- Explain the significance of low glycemic index foods in public health nutrition and their potential impact on managing lifestyle diseases in India.
- With suitable examples, discuss the challenges and strategies involved in documenting and conserving plant biodiversity in ecologically sensitive regions.
