India’s floral diversity has been expanded with the identification of a new wild kiwi species, Actinidia indica, in Arunachal Pradesh. The discovery was made by scientists from the Botanical Survey of India after field surveys and taxonomic study in the Eastern Himalaya. The species was found in Lower Subansiri district at an elevation of about 1,725 metres, growing along forest edges in sub-tropical vegetation.
Species Identification
Actinidia indica is a perennial climbing shrub that grows up to 2–4 metres in height. It has densely hairy young branches, large ovate leaves, and white to creamy flowers measuring 4–6 cm. The fruit is globose, olive-green, and 2.5–4 cm in size. A distinctive reticulate lenticel pattern on the fruit helps identify the species.
Scientific Significance
The discovery was led by researchers from the Central National Herbarium, Howrah. It followed detailed morphological examination and comparison with related species. The finding adds to the documented flora of India and marks the importance of plant taxonomy in identifying lesser-known species.
Biodiversity Value of Eastern Himalaya
The Eastern Himalaya is recognised as a major biodiversity hotspot with rich and often under-explored plant diversity. The new species record reinforces the ecological importance of Arunachal Pradesh and the need for continued botanical surveys in remote habitats.
Global and National Context
With this discovery, the global count of Actinidia species rises to 56. Only a few species of this genus are known from India. The finding is relevant for biodiversity conservation, scientific documentation, and the protection of natural heritage.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026