The recent cultivation of the rare palm, Pinanga andamanensis, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI) in Palode, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), has sparked attention. This significant development in botanical research marks a crucial step in the conservation of this endemic species with a limited geographical range and fragile gene pool.
Understanding Pinanga andamanensis
Pinanga andamanensis is a unique palm tree native to South Andaman Island. Its entire population, numbering just 600 specimens, is naturally found solely in the evergreen forest pocket within South Andaman’s Mount Harriet National Park.
Endemic species like this palm are particular plants and animals that exist only in a specific geographical region. The term ‘endemic’ for this species highlights its restricted availability. The name of this palm derives from ‘Penang’, a modern-day Malaysian state. ‘Penang’ originates from Pulau Pinang, translating to Island of the Areca Nut Palm. This reflects the palm’s strong resemblance to the Areca palm tree, widely appreciated for its vibrant interiors.
Due to its small gene pool, Pinanga andamanensis is incredibly vulnerable to natural calamities such as cyclones and earthquakes. This vulnerability has led JNTBGRI scientists to classify it as a critically endangered species and one of the least known among the endemic palms of the Andaman Islands.
Successful Cultivation at JNTBGRI
Recognizing Thiruvananthapuram as its second home, Pinanga andamanensis has begun flourishing at the JNTBGRI. In response to this success, the institute plans to carry out seed germination experiments intended for mass multiplication, forming a key part of their conservation strategy for this rare palm.
Mount Harriet National Park: Biodiversity Hub
Positioned in the southern region of the Andaman and Nicobar islands, Mount Harriet National Park is the home of Pinanga andamanensis. It stands as the third-highest peak in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, just behind Saddle Peak in North Andaman and Mount Thuillier in Great Nicobar.
The remarkable biodiversity of this park extends beyond the rare palm. Its evergreen forest pockets teem with a wide variety of flora and fauna. This includes unique species such as Andaman wild pigs, saltwater crocodiles, and various butterfly and palm tree species.
The cultivation of the Pinanga andamanensis at JNTBGRI not only drives forward the preservation of this critically endangered palm but also raises awareness about the richness of endemic species in regions like the Andaman and Nicobar islands. As more initiatives like this are undertaken, there is hope for the survival and conservation of these unique species in their natural habitats.
