India. West Bengal: Darjeeling district, Takdah forest, 27.0493, 88.3555, elevation 1220 m, 20 August 2022, Y. Ritu, S. Goray & Rhuthuparna S. B. VG2022WB3803 (holotype: BHPL!; isotype: ASSAM!).

Globba corniculata is morphologically similar to G. ruiliensis and G. multiflora but differs in having sessile, oblong-narrowly ovate leaves, absence of inflorescence bracts and bracteoles, orange flower, cuneate labellum with cornicula (Fig. 4F), long pedicel, the presence of bulbils throughout the inflorescence vs. petiolate, ovate to narrowly ovate leaves, presence of inflorescence bracts and bracteole, yellow to orange flowers, and obcuneate labellum with cornicula.

Figure 4. 

Globba corniculata sp. nov. A habit B rhizome C, D ligule E inflorescence F flower (front view) G flower (side view) H gynoecium I dissected flower, cl (corolla lobes), an (anther), ls (lateral staminodes), la (labellum) J fruit. Photographs by Y. Ritu.

Terrestrial herbs, 100–160 cm tall including inflorescence height, pseudostem swollen at the base. Rhizomes compact, non tuberulous, creamish white. Leafy shoot with 9–12 leaves; sheath ligulate, ligule 3 mm long, bilobed, margin densely pubescent; lamina 25–32 × 6–10 cm, sessile, oblong–narrowly ovate, base rounded, apex caudate, margin entire, adaxially pubescent along veins and margins, abaxially densely pubescent. Inflorescence terminal to the leafy shoot, 25–53 cm long, erect; peduncle 18–23 mm long, light green, glabrous; rachis, dark green, glabrous, with white dots, bracts and bracteole absent. Ebracteate cincinni 25–51, flowers maturing from base to apex of inflorescence, each cincinni with 2–3 flowers. Floral pedicel for basal flowers 2.2–2.7 cm long, for terminal flowers 0.4–0.6 cm long, dark green, white dotted, glabrous. Flowers 4.2–4.9 cm long, orange, recurved; calyx 9–10 mm long, pale yellow with maroon patches; floral tube 1.5–1.8 cm long, dark orangish red, densely pubescent, curved upwards holding the flower upright; dorsal corolla lobe 8–9 × 3–4 mm, ovate, apex cucullate, dark maroon with orange tip, densely pubescent; lateral corolla lobes 7–8 × 5–5.5 mm, ovate, apex acute, dark maroon with orange apex, glabrous; labellum 1.3 × 0.6–0.8 cm, cordate, corniculate, orange, linear structures scattered on ventral surface; lateral staminodes 9–10 × 3–4 mm, narrowly ovate, apex attenuate, orange, glabrous. Stamen 2.1–2.4 cm long, filament 1.5–1.8 cm long, orange tinged red, glabrous, fulvous with red dots, arching; anther 5–6 mm long, ovate, apex acute, orange tinged red, crest 0.8–0.9 mm long, non-appendaged; style 4.3–4.8 cm, filiform, apex broader than base, stigma 4–5 mm long, cylindrical, apex ciliate. Ovary 0.4–0.5 × 0.3 cm, obovate, pale green, verrucose; epigynous glands 2, 0.4–0.5 cm long, linear, cream. Fruit 1.5 cm in diameter, globose, green, verrucose, calyx persistent. Bulbils 1.2–2 × 0.5–0.8 cm, narrowly ovoid, yellowish green with dark maroon lines, pubescent, bulbils often at the base within a cincinni, but present throughout the inflorescence.

At present, G. corniculata is known only from the Takdah Forest in West Bengal, which is a tropical evergreen, lower montane forest at an elevation of ca. 1220 m. It is terrestrial, mostly growing in open habitats along the edge of roads. The current location has ca. 70 individuals within an area of ca. 400 m². Other sympatric ginger species were G. racemosa and Hedychium spicatum Sm. We have observed several species of bees and butterflies visiting the flowers of this species.

Flowering and fruiting were observed in the month of August.

The species epithet ‘corniculata’ refers to the presence of horn-shaped structure at the base of labellum.

G. corniculata is known only from one population, which is a protected area with limited or no anthropogenic disturbance. The population was spread across 2–3 km along the edge of the road, where we counted 1500–2000 individuals. We surveyed six potential locations in Darjeeling, which is 50 km² around the type locality (Takdah forest) and could not locate any population in northern West Bengal. Based on the IUCN (2022) guidelines, we hypothesize that if a formal conservation assessment were performed, its conservation status would probably be Critically Endangered according to criteria B1. (a) (B1: extent of occurrence is less than 100 km², a: = 1 location).

G. ruiliensis: China. Yunnan Province: Ruili City, Nongdao Town, Dengga village, 23.95 N, 97.55 E, elevation 854 m, 21 October 2019, Jian-Yong Shen, Wen-Guang Wang & Xing-Da Ma 1666 (holotype: HITBC!)

G. multiflora: India. Sikkim: Regio Trop, (PL0092 1837), (P01743164). Assam: Khasia Hills (L0487990), Khasi Hills, Nambar Forest, 3 July 1949, elevation 91.44 m, F. Kingdon-Ward 18619 (NY02650821), Jenkins F Jenkins, F s.n. (L0487989).

The new species is similar to the two species in flower color and presence of cornicula at the base of the labellum. The new species differs from G. ruiliensis in its large inflorescence 25–53 cm (vs. 10–35 cm), short peduncle 1.8–2.3 cm (vs. 3–15 cm), glabrous rachis (vs. hirsute) and absence of inflorescence bracts (vs. present). The new species differs from G. multiflora in its large lateral staminodes 9–10 mm (vs. 3–4 mm), length of lateral staminodes equal to corolla lobes (vs. shorter than corolla lobes), and production of bulbils throughout the inflorescence (vs. only at the lower portion of inflorescence). The detailed morphological comparisons between G. corniculata and G. ruiliensis, G. multiflora are presented in Table 1.

G. ruiliensis is distributed in Yunnan province, China and G. multiflora is distributed in Meghalaya, Assam, and Sikkim states, India and Bangladesh (Fig. 5).

Figure 5. 

Map showing the distribution of G. multiflora, G. ruiliensis, and G. corniculata sp. nov.

India. West Bengal: Darjeeling district, Latpuncher, 26.9159, 88.4028, elevation 1200 m, 26 August 2022, Y. Ritu, S. Goray VG2022WB3852 (holotype: BHPL!; isotype: ASSAM!).

G. paschimbengalensis is morphologically similar to G. andersonii but differs in having off-white flowers with a faint tinge of yellow, deeply notched ligule with unequal lobes (Fig. 6C) reduced or no peduncle vs. white flowers, ligule with equal lobes and with peduncle.

Figure 6. 

Globba paschimbengalensis sp. nov. A habit B, C ligule D inflorescence E flower (front view) F flower (side view) G dissected flower, br (bracteole), cl (corolla lobes), an (anther), sty (style with stigma, ovary and epigynous gland), ls (lateral staminodes), la (labellum) H fruit. Photographs by Y. Ritu.

Lithophyte herbs, 50–70 cm tall including inflorescence height, pseudostem swollen at the base. Rhizomes compact, non-tuberulous, creamish-white. Leafy shoot with 10–12 leaves; sheath ligulate, ligule 0.9–1.1 cm long, bilobed, lobes unequal, margin minutely pubescent; lamina 24–30 × 4–8 cm, sessile, narrowly ovate, base obtuse, apex caudate, margin entire, adaxially pubescent along veins and margins, abaxially glabrous, veins prominent. Inflorescence terminal to the leafy shoot, 8–12 cm long, erect; peduncle absent or reduced; rachis, dark maroon at the base and terminally light green, densely pubescent; bracts 1.6–1.7 × 1.4–1.5 mm, obovoid, pale yellow, pubescent adaxially, glabrous abaxially, persistent; bracteole 5.5–8.3 × 1.9–7.3 mm, ovoid, pale yellow, glabrous. Cincinni 7–10 per inflorescence, each cincinni with 2–5 flowers. Floral pedicel for basal flowers 2–2.5 cm long, for terminal flowers 0.2–0.4 cm, dark maroon, densely pubescent. Flowers 4.2–4.5 cm long, pale dull yellow, recurved; calyx 5–6 mm long, gray-green; floral tube 8.3–10 mm long, off-white tinged yellow, densely pubescent, curved upwards holding the flower upright; dorsal corolla lobe 5–6 × 2.4–2.5 mm, ovate, apex cucullate, off-white tinged green, sparsely pubescent; lateral corolla lobes 4.5–5 × 3–4 mm, ovate, apex acute, off-white tinged green, glabrous; labellum 9–10 × 2.4–2.5 mm, decurrent, sagittate, off-white with orange spot in center, glabrous, labellum notch with echinate structures; lateral staminodes 7.8–8.8 × 2.6–3.2 mm, narrowly ovate, apex acute, off-white tinged faintly yellow, glabrous. Stamen 2.4–2.5 cm long, filament 1.9–2 cm long, off-white tinged yellow, glabrous, arching; anther 4–5 mm long, largely ovate, off-white, crest 0.4 mm long, obtuse, non-appendaged; style filiform, apex broader than base, stigma 3–4 mm long, cylindrical, apex ciliate. Ovary 1.7 × 1.3 mm, ovoid, cream; epigynous glands 2, 1.2–1.2 mm, linear, cream. Fruit 1.5 cm in diameter, globose, greenish yellow, verrucose, calyx persistent. Bulbils absent.

G. paschimbengalensis is recorded only from Latpuncher, Darjeeling district, West Bengal, where we observed ca. 30 individuals in an area of an estimated 400 m². G. paschimbengalensis is lithophytic, mostly growing along the edge of roads at an elevation of ca. 1200 m. We have observed bumblebees visiting the flowers of this species.

Flowering and fruiting were observed in the month of August.

The species epithet refers to the Indian state of West Bengal, where this species was found.

We have only found one population that was not in a protected area. The population was spread across a 20–25 m² area with a total of 60–70 individuals only. We surveyed six potential locations in Darjeeling in a 40 km² area around the type locality (Latpuncher) and did not find any population in northern West Bengal. Based on the IUCN (2022) guidelines, we informally assess the status as Critically Endangered according to criteria B1. (a) (B1: extent of occurrence is less than 100 km², a: =1 location), and C. (C: fewer than 250 mature individuals).

G. andersonii: India. West Bengal: Darjeeling Himalaya, around Baghpul, elevation 200–300 m, 6 July 2011, S. Nirola & AP Das 1334A (holotype: CAL!), Sivok Hill Forest, Near Coronation Bridge in the ghat region, 2 July 2011, Sachin A. Punekar s.n. (CALI!), elevation 914 m, 15 July 1913 (E00095574), Mongpoo, elevation 914.4 m, 12 July 1884, Williams (P00411420), Mongpoo, 914.4 m, 12 July 1884, Williams (P00252245), Darjeeling, Pankabari, elevation 762 m, July 1874, J. S. Gamble 8130 (K000640559). Sikkim: elevation 305 m, 6 July 1915 (E00095573), Regio Trop (P00686468).

The new species is similar to one species in inflorescence length, presence of inflorescence bracts, and absence of bulbils. This species differs from G. andersonii in having unequal lobes, deeply notched ligule (vs. equal lobes and slightly notched), absence of peduncle (vs. presence of peduncle), and large lateral staminodes 7.8–8.8 mm (vs. 5–6 mm). The detailed morphological comparisons between G. paschimbengalensis and G. andersonii are presented in Table 2.

India. West Bengal: Darjeeling district, Pankhabari, 26.8326, 88.2662, elevation 600 m, 6 September 2022, Y. Ritu, & P. A. Shangreiphao VG2022WB3906 (holotype: BHPL!; isotype: ASSAM!).

G. polymorpha is morphologically similar to G. andersonii but differs in having pale yellow flower, densely pubescent ligule with long white hairs (Fig. 7C), red or green-colored bracteole, large anther (4–5 mm) vs. white flowers, ligule pubescent externally, white color bracteole and small anther (1.5 mm).

Figure 7. 

Globba polymorpha sp. nov. A habit B rhizome C ligule D inflorescence E flower (front view) F flower (side view) G dissected flower, br (bracteole), cl (corolla lobes), an (anther), ls (lateral staminodes), la (labellum), sty (style and stigma) H fruit. Photographs A, D and E by Rhuthuparna SB, rest by Y. Ritu.

Lithophytic herbs, 42–68 cm tall including inflorescence height, pseudostem swollen at the base. Rhizomes compact, non-tuberulous, creamish white. Leafy shoot with 6–12 leaves; sheath ligulate, ligule 1.5–1.8 cm long, bilobed, densely pubescent; lamina 22–28 × 5–9 cm, sessile, narrowly ovate, base attenuate, apex caudate, margin entire, adaxially pubescent along veins and margins, abaxially pubescent. Inflorescence terminal to the leafy shoot, 7.5–16 cm long, erect; peduncle 1.5 cm long, green with red dots to dark maroon, densely pubescent; rachis, green with red to dark maroon spots, densely pubescent; bracts 4.7–9.2 × 2.2–3.4 mm, elliptic, olive green with brown tinge, glabrous; bracteole 6.4–8.7 × 2.9–4.7 mm, obovoid to ovoid, brown with purple tinge, glabrous. Cincinni 7–17, each cincinni with 4–6 flowers. Floral pedicel for basal flowers 1.2–1.4 cm long, for terminal flowers 0.6–0.8 cm long, dark maroon, sparsely pubescent. Flowers 4–4.5 cm long, pale dull yellow, recurved; calyx 4–5 mm long, maroon; floral tube 8–9.3 mm long, pale yellow tinged pink, densely pubescent, curved upwards holding the flower upright; dorsal corolla lobe 5–6 × 2.5 mm, ovate, apex cucullate, light maroon, pubescent; lateral corolla lobes 3–3.5 mm × 2.2 mm, ovate, apex acute, yellow tinged maroon, pubescent; labellum 7–8 × 1.5–1.8 mm, decurrent, linear, pale dull yellow, glabrous, labellum notch with echinate structures; lateral staminodes 6–6.5 × 2–2.5 mm, narrowly ovate, apex acute, pale dull yellow, glabrous. Stamen 1.9–2.1 cm long, filament 1.6–1.8 cm long, off-white tinged yellow, glabrous, arching; anther 2.5–3 mm long, largely ovate, apex attenuate, pale yellow, crest 0.3 mm long, non-appendaged; style, filiform, stigma 4–5 mm wide, funnel-shaped, apex ciliate. Ovary 2.9 × 1.7 mm, ovoid, maroon, verrucose; epigynous glands 2, 1.2–1.3 mm, linear, cream. Fruit 1.5 cm in diameter, globose, greenish yellow, verrucose, calyx persistent. Bulbils absent.

G. polymorpha is recorded only from Pankhabari, Darjeeling district, West Bengal. At Pankhabari, we have observed ca. 21 individuals in a ca. 400 m² area. G. polymorpha is lithophytic, mostly growing along the edge of roads at an elevation of ca. 600 m. We observed floral color polymorphism in this species, with red bracteole and yellow bracteole individuals growing within the same population. We have observed different species of bees and butterflies visiting the flowers of this species.

Flowering and fruiting were observed in the month of September.

The species epithet refers to the floral color variation due to bracteole color variations among individuals within the same population, which can be seen in Fig. 7A (top left and bottom left).

G. polymorpha is known from only one population, which was not a protected habitat or area. The population was spread across a 10–15 m long stretch along the roadside with 20–25 individuals. We surveyed six potential locations in the Darjeeling district, which is 40 km² around the type locality (Pankhabari), and we did not locate any population in northern West Bengal. Based on the IUCN (2022) guidelines and a formal conservation assessment based on the known distribution and number of individuals present, we propose its conservation status to be critically endangered according to criteria B1. (a) (B1: extent of occurrence is less than 100 km², a: =1 location), and D. (D: number of mature individuals <50). In 2022, we observed 20–25 individuals at the type location, most of which were cleared for road extension, which led to a decrease in the number (10) of individuals, suggesting that the species is at risk of extinction.

G. andersonii: India. West Bengal: Darjeeling Himalaya, around Baghpul, elevation 200–300 m, 6 July 2011, S. Nirola & AP Das 1334A (holotype: CAL!), Sivok Hill Forest, Near Coronation Bridge in the ghat region, 2 July 2011, Sachin A. Punekar s.n. (CALI!), elevation 914 m, 15 July 1913 (E00095574), Mongpoo, elevation 914.4 m, 12 July 1884, Williams (P00411420), Mongpoo, elevation 914.4 m, 12 July 1884, Williams (P00252245), Darjeeling, Pankabari, elevation 762 m, July 1874, J. S. Gamble 8130 (K000640559). Sikkim: elevation 305 m, 6 July 1915 (E00095573), Regio Trop (P00686468).

The new species is similar to one species in inflorescence height, sessile leaves, densely pubescent peduncle, and absence of bulbils. This species differs from G. andersonii in its large ligule 1.5–1.8 mm (vs. 0.8–1.2 mm), pale dull yellow flowers (vs. white), and large anther 2.5–3 mm (vs. 1.5 mm). Detailed morphological comparisons between G. polymorpha and G. andersonii are presented in Table 2.

G. andersonii is distributed to West Bengal, India (Fig. 8).

Figure 8. 

Map showing the distribution of G. paschimbengalensis, G. andersonii, and G. polymorpha sp. nov.

India. Meghalaya: East Khasi Hills district, Tyrna village, Double decker bridge, 25.2513, 91.672, elevation 731 m, 25 July 2022, Y. Ritu VG2022WB3725 (holotype: BHPL!; isotype: ASSAM!).

G. tyrnaensis is morphologically similar to G. orixensis and G. macroclada but different in having short inflorescence, absence of inflorescence bracts, petiolate lamina, short filament, large anther (Fig. 9) vs. large inflorescence, presence of inflorescence bracts, sessile lamina, large filament and small anther.

Figure 9. 

Globba tyrnaensis sp. nov. A habit B rhizome C ligule D inflorescence E flower (front view) F flower (side view) G gynoecium H dissected flower, cl (corolla lobes), an (anther), ls (lateral staminodes), la (labellum) I fruit J Bulbils. Photographs by Y. Ritu.

Terrestrial herbs, 32–59 cm tall including inflorescence height, pseudostem swollen at the base. Rhizomes compact, non-tuberulous, creamish-white. Leafy shoot with 6–11 leaves; sheath ligulate, ligule 3 mm long, bilobed, translucent margin and green in center, turns papery when dry, pubescent; lamina 13–18 × 2.8–3.2 cm, subsessile, petiole 0.5 cm, green with cream color stripes, glabrous, narrowly ovate, base obtuse, apex caudate, margin entire, glabrous. Inflorescence terminal to the leafy shoot, 3–8 cm long, erect; peduncle 18 mm long, light green with maroon dots, glabrous; rachis, green with maroon patches, glabrous, bracts and bracteoles absent. Ebracteate cincinni 5–16, each cincinni with 2–3 flowers. Floral pedicel 0.15–0.5 cm, light green, glabrous. Flowers 3–3.9 cm long, orange, recurved; calyx 8–9 mm long, yellowish orange; floral tube 1.2–1.3 mm long, dull orangish red, densely pubescent, bent upwards holding the flower upright; dorsal corolla lobe 5.2–5.5 × 2.3–3.2 mm, ovate, apex cucullate, orange, glabrous; lateral corolla lobes 5.7 × 3.3 mm, ovate, apex acute, yellow, glabrous; labellum 7 × 5 mm, corniculate, ovate, orange in center with lighter orange margin, labellum notch with echinate structures, cornicula 0.2–0.3 mm in length, glabrous; lateral staminodes 4.7–4.8 × 2.7 mm, narrowly ovate, apex acute, orange, hairs on margin. Stamen 2.1 cm long; filament 1.8 cm long, orange, glabrous, arching; anther 3.7 mm long, ovate, apex truncate, orange, crest 0.7–0.8 mm long, non-appendaged; style filiform, apex broader than the base, stigma 4–5 mm, cylindrical, apex ciliate. Ovary 3.1–3.6 × 2.5 mm, obovate, yellow, verrucose, epigynous glands 2, 0.3 cm long, linear, cream. Fruit 1.2 cm in diameter, globose, green, verrucose, calyx persistent. Bulbils 1.2–2 × 0.5–0.8 cm, ovoid, light green to light yellow, pubescent, bulbils present in the inflorescence and axil of leaves.

At present, we have seen G. tyrnaensis in the Double decker bridge, Tyrna village, and Thangkharang Park, Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. We have observed 150–200 individuals in Tyrna village and 10–15 individuals in Thangkharang Park, and the overall area of these two populations is ca. 400 m² each. G. tyrnaensis is terrestrial mostly growing in understory habitats inside forests at an elevation of ca. 731 m. We have observed different species of bees visiting the flowers of this species.

Flowering and fruiting were observed in the month of July.

The species epithet refers to the type locality for this species, which is at the Tyrna village, Cherrapunji, Meghalaya.

We have documented G. tyrnaensis from two populations within the state of Meghalaya: at Double decker bridge (Cherrapunji district) and near Thangkharang Park (Cherrapunji district). Both populations were in community-protected areas with limited anthropogenic disturbance. The first population was spread across 20–30 km along the edge of the road, where 300–400 individuals were counted. The second population was spread across 5–6 km with 10–15 individuals. We surveyed seven potential locations in Meghalaya, which accounts to ~50 km² around the type locality (Double decker bridge), and we did not locate any other population of this species in this region. Based on the IUCN (2022) guidelines and observed population sizes and area of occupancy, we propose the conservation status of G. tyrnaensis to be Endangered according to criteria B1. (a) (B1: extent of occurrence is less than 100 km², a: less than or equal to 5 locations).

G. orixensis: India. Assam: Barak valley, Cachar district, Kumbhirgram, 21 July 2009, Coll.: D. Bhattacharyya 2501, Fl. & Fr.; Dargakona, Assam University Silchar Campus, behind Life Science and Bioinformatics Department, along the trek path to ecoforest, 24.6870 N & 92.7521E, 13 July 2010, Coll.: Fl. (Herbarium of Department of Life Science & Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar), L. Darlong & D. Bhattacharyya 10063,

28 May 1808 (E00095817), 13 June 1920 (E00095807), (E00097427), elevation 610 m, 31 May 1882 (E00097430), 13 June 1920 (E00095807), elevation 610 m, 31 May 1882 (E00097430), 28 May 1808 (E00095817), 28 May 1809 (E00095821), (E00095820), (E00097427), (E00095812), 25.583 N, 91.633 E (L0487999), Wallich N (L0487998), Nayagarh, 5 August 1936, H. F. Mooney 528 (L0487991). Odisha: Keonjhar, H. F. Moooney 152 (L0488000). Meghalaya: Khasia, Regio Trop, Hooker J. D. (L0488002), Regio Trop, 28 September 2001, Hooker J. D. (P01743148) Hort Bot. Calcutta et Serampore, Voigt, J.O. 101 (P00252266), East Himalaya, 5634 (P01743147). Myanmar. 13 August 1908 (E00097420), elevation 137 m, 13 August 1909 (E00097421), 13 August 1908 (E00097420), Sagaing Division, W. J. Kress 2-7123 (US00605376). Bangladesh. Elevation 40 m, 3 September 1999 (E00189266), 22.695 N, 92.237 E, elevation 40 m, 5 September 1999 (E00189267), Sreemangal, Lawachera forest, 24.25 N, 91.583 E, 8 May 1997, Williams K J (L0413463)

G. macroclada: India. Wallichn 6411 (L0487998), Assam: Khasia, 25.583 N, 91.633 E, 5 August 1936, Tea Deputation Tea Deputation s. n. (L0487999), Nayagarh, 8 May 1997, Mooney H. F. 528 (L0487991). Sikkim: East Himalaya, Griffith W 5639 (L0041113), Herb. Watt 8702 (E00095812), (E00097427), 6536G (E00095820), 28 May 1808, 7 (E00095821), elevation 610 m, 31 May 1882, 6931 (E00097430), 13 June 1920, 277 (E00095807), Khasia, Hooker J. D. (P01743148), East Himalaya, Herb. Griffith 5634 (P01743147), Hort. Bot. Calcutta et Serampore, Voigt, J. O. 101 (P00252266), East Himalaya, 12 July 1884, Griffith, W. 5639 (P032726), Mogpoo, Silake, elevation 3000 m, 12 July 1884, s.c.|Boissier, P.E. (P00686490), Silake, elevation 609.6 m, Buissier, P. E. (P00686489). Bangladesh. 24.25, 91.583, elevation 35 m, 1 March 1971, Huq AM; Mia MK (L0413463), elevation 40 m, 3 September 1999, 972 (E00189266). Myanmar. 13 August 1908, elevation 137 m, 4195 (E00097420). Nepal. 26.816 N, 87.3 E, elevation 500 m, 13 August 1972, 1427 (E00500193). United States of America. Maryland: NMNH Botany Research Greenhouses. Suitland, 28 September 2001, W. J. Kress & M. Bordelon 02-7123 (US3432988).

The new species is similar to two species in flower color, and absence of anther appendages. This species is different from G. orixensis in its petiolate leaves 0.5 mm (vs. subsessile), absence of inflorescence bracts (vs. present), short filament 1.8 cm (vs. 2.4 cm), and large anther 3.7 mm (vs. 2 mm). The species is different from G. macroclada in its petiolate leaves (vs. sessile), short inflorescence 3–8 cm (vs. 15 cm), and absence of inflorescence bract (vs. present). The detailed morphological comparisons between G. tyrnaensis and G. orixensis are presented in Table 3.

India. Meghalaya: East Khasi Hills district, Tyrna village, Double decker bridge, 25.2513, 91.672, elevation 731 m, 25 July 2022, Y. Ritu VG2022WB3727 (holotype: BHPL!; isotype: ASSAM!).

G. janakiae is morphologically similar to G. orixensis and G. macroclada but different in having short inflorescence, absence of inflorescence bracts, petiolate lamina, short filament, large anther, heart-shaped labellum with cornicula (Fig. 10F) vs. large inflorescence, presence of inflorescence bracts, sessile lamina, large filament, small anther, and labellum without cornicula.

Figure 10. 

Globba janakiae sp. nov. A habit B rhizome C ligule D inflorescence E flower (side view) F flower (front view) G dissected flower, cl (corolla lobes), an (anther), ls (lateral staminodes), la (labellum), sty (style with stigma and ovary with epigynous glands). Photographs by Y. Ritu.

Terrestrial herbs, 40–46 cm tall including inflorescence height, pseudostem swollen at the base. Rhizomes compact, non-tuberulous, creamish-white. Leafy shoot with 8–10; sheath ligulate, ligule 1 mm long, bilobed, margin translucent and green in the center, pubescent; lamina 13 × 2.8 cm, subsessile, petiole 0.3 cm, green, glabrous, narrowly ovate, base obtuse, apex caudate, margin entire, glabrous. Inflorescence terminal to the leafy shoot, 4–6 cm long, erect; peduncle 12 mm long, green, glabrous; rachis, green, glabrous, bracts and bracteole absent. Ebracteate cincinni 6–8, glabrous, each cincinni with 1–2 flowers. Floral pedicel 0.1–0.5 cm long, light green, glabrous. Flowers 3–3.9 cm long, orange, recurved; calyx 8–9 mm long, yellowish orange; floral tube 0.5–0.6 cm long, dull orangish red, densely pubescent, curved upwards holding the flower upright; dorsal corolla lobe 6.6–7 × 2.5–3 mm, ovate, orange, densely pubescent; lateral corolla lobes 5.4 × 3 mm, ovate, apex acute, dark maroon with orange apex, glabrous; labellum 8.6 × 3 mm, cordate, corniculate, orange in center with light orange margins, labellum notch texture echinate, cornicula 0.3 mm in length, glabrous lateral staminodes 3.2 × 2.5 mm, ovate, orange, glabrous. Stamen 2.3 cm long, filament 2 cm long, orange, glabrous, arching; anther 3.8 mm long, ovate, apex truncate orange, crest 0.2–0.3 mm long, non-appendaged; style, filiform; stigma 4–5 mm, cylindrical, apex ciliate. Ovary 3.4 × 2.4 mm, obovate, pale green, verrucose; epigynous glands 2, 0.4 cm long, linear, cream. Fruits - not observed. Bulbils 1.2–2 × 0.5–0.8 cm, narrowly ovate, light green to light yellow, pubescent, bulbils present in inflorescence and axil of leaves.

At present, we have seen this species only in the Double decker bridge, Tyrna village, Cherrapunji, Meghalaya. We have observed 5–6 individuals in an overall area of ca. 400 m². This species is terrestrial, mostly growing in understory habitats inside forests with an elevation of ca. 731 m. We have observed different species of bees visiting the flowers of this species.

Flowering was observed in the month of July.

The species is named in honor of Dr. E. K. Janaki Ammal. She was a pioneering Indian woman botanist who challenged the norms of caste, gender and race. She was critical about deforestation carried out to make way for development projects and advocated preservation of native plants.

Globba janakiae is currently known from one population in Double decker bridge (Cherrapunji district) within the state of Meghalaya, wherein the population was spread across 2–3 km along the edge of the road and has approximately 5–6 individuals. We surveyed seven potential locations in Meghalaya, which is 50 km² around the type locality (Double decker bridge) and could not locate any population. Based on the IUCN (2022) guidelines, we hypothesize that if a formal conservation assessment were performed, its conservation status would probably be Critically Endangered according to criterias B1. (a) (B1: extent of occurrence is less than 100 km², a: = 1 location) and D. (D: number of mature individuals <50).

G. orixensis: India. Assam: Barak Valley, Cachar district, Kumbhirgram, 21 July 2009, Coll.: D. Bhattacharyya 2501, Fl. & Fr.; Dargakona, Assam University Silchar Campus, behind Life Science and Bioinformatics Department, along the trek path to ecoforest, 24.6870 N & 92.7521E, 13 July 2010, Coll.: Fl. (Herbarium of Department of Life Science & Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar), L. Darlong & D. Bhattacharyya 10063, 28 May 1808 (E00095817), 13 June 1920 (E00095807), (E00097427), elevation 610 m, 31 May 1882 (E00097430), 13 June 1920 (E00095807), elevation 610 m, 31 May 1882 (E00097430), 28 May 1808 (E00095817), 28 May 1809 (E00095821), (E00095820), (E00097427), (E00095812), 25.583 N, 91.633 E (L0487999), Wallich N (L0487998), Nayagarh, 5 August 1936, H. F. Mooney 528 (L0487991). Odisha: Keonjhar, H. F. Moooney 152 (L0488000). Meghalaya: Khasia, Regio Trop, Hooker J. D. (L0488002), Regio Trop, 28 September 2001, Hooker J. D. (P01743148) Hort Bot. Calcutta et Serampore, Voigt, J.O. 101 (P00252266), East Himalaya, 5634 (P01743147). Myanmar. 13 August 1908 (E00097420), elevation 137 m, 13 August 1909 (E00097421), 13 August 1908 (E00097420), Sagaing Division, W. J. Kress 2-7123 (US00605376). Bangladesh. Elevation 40 m, 3 September 1999 (E00189266), 22.695 N, 92.237 E, elevation 40 m, 5 September 1999 (E00189267), Sreemangal, Lawachera forest, 24.25 N, 91.583 E, 8 May 1997, Williams K J (L0413463)

G. macroclada: India. Wallichn 6411 (L0487998), Assam: Khasia, 25.583 N, 91.633 E, 5 August 1936, Tea Deputation Tea Deputation s. n. (L0487999), Nayagarh, 8 May 1997, Mooney H. F. 528 (L0487991). Sikkim: East Himalaya, Griffith W 5639 (L0041113), Herb. Watt 8702 (E00095812), (E00097427), 6536G (E00095820), 28 May 1808, 7 (E00095821), elevation 610 m, 31 May 1882, 6931 (E00097430), 13 June 1920, 277 (E00095807), Khasia, Hooker J. D. (P01743148), East Himalaya, Herb. Griffith 5634 (P01743147), Hort. Bot. Calcutta et Serampore, Voigt, J. O. 101 (P00252266), East Himalaya, 12 July 1884, Griffith, W. 5639 (P032726), Mogpoo, Silake, elevation 3000 m, 12 July 1884, s.c.|Boissier, P.E. (P00686490), Silake, elevation 609.6 m, Buissier, P. E. (P00686489). Bangladesh. 24.25, 91.583, elevation 35 m, 1 March 1971, Huq AM; Mia MK (L0413463), elevation 40 m, 3 September 1999, 972 (E00189266). Myanmar. 13 August 1908, elevation 137 m, 4195 (E00097420). Nepal. 26.816 N, 87.3 E, elevation 500 m, 13 August 1972, 1427 (E00500193). United States of America. Maryland: NMNH Botany Research Greenhouses. Suitland, 28 September 2001, W. J. Kress & M. Bordelon 02-7123 (US3432988).

The new species is similar to two species in color of the flower, and absence of anther appendages. This species is different from G. orixensis in its petiolate leaves 0.3 mm (vs. subsessile), absence of inflorescence bracts (vs. present), and large anther 3.8 mm (vs. 2 mm). This species is different from G. macroclada in its short ligule 1 mm (vs. 2–3 mm), small size inflorescence 4–6 cm (vs. 15 cm), and short anther 3.8 mm (vs. 6–7 mm). Detailed morphological comparisons between G. janakiae and G. orixensis are presented in Table 3.

G. macroclada is distributed in Nepal and West Bengal, India, and G. orixensis is distributed in Bangladesh, Assam and Odisha states, India, and Myanmar (Fig. 11).

Figure 11. 

Map showing the distribution of G. janakiae sp. nov., G. macroclada, G. orixensis, and G. tyrnaensis sp. nov.

India. Mizoram: Mamit district, Reiek Tlang road, 23.6777, 92.6037, elevation 300 m, 28 September 2022, Y. Ritu & P. A. Shangreiphao VG2022MZ3958 (holotype: BHPL!; isotype: ASSAM!).

Globba yadaviana is morphologically similar to G. rahmanii, G. expansa and G. lancangensis but clearly different in pod shape fruit (Fig. 12I), absence of andromonoecy, reduced peduncle, large inflorescence, short calyx vs. oblong, globose ellipsoid fruit, presence of andromonoecy, large peduncle, small inflorescence, and large calyx.

Figure 12. 

Globba yadaviana sp. nov. A habitat B habit C rhizome D ligule E inflorescence F flower (front view) G flower (side view) H dissected flower, cl (corolla lobes), an (anther), ls (lateral staminodes), la (labellum) I fruit. Photographs by Y. Ritu.

Lithophytic herbs, 35–70 cm tall including inflorescence height, pseudostem swollen at the base. Rhizomes compact, non-tuberulous, creamish-white. Leafy shoot with 5–10 leaves; sheath ligulate, ligule 4–5 mm long, bilobed, light green, sparsely pubescent; lamina 26–35 × 6.5–11 cm, sessile, narrowly ovate, base obtuse, apex caudate, margin entire, glabrous. Inflorescence terminal to the leafy shoot, 6–35 cm long, erect; peduncle reduced, light green, glabrous; rachis, green, pubescent; bracts 2.3–2.5 × 0.7–0.8 mm, elliptic, green, pubescent and bracteoles 2.5–2.6 × 1–1.3 mm, ovate, light green, glabrous. Cincinni 5–39, each cincinni with 7–18 flowers. Floral pedicel for basal flowers 2.5–4 cm long, for terminal flowers 0.6 –1.5 cm long, light green, pubescent. Flowers 3–3.6 cm long, yellow-orange, recurved; calyx 2–2.5 mm long, grayish green; floral tube 3.2 mm long, yellow, densely pubescent, slightly curved at the middle; dorsal corolla lobe 6.8 × 2.6–2.8 mm, ovate, yellow tinged green, glabrous; lateral corolla lobes 4.8–4.9 × 2.2 mm, ovate, apex obtuse, yellow green tinged, glabrous; labellum 11.5 × 3 mm, sagittate, yellow, labellum notch texture echinate; lateral staminodes 14–15 × 5.5–5.6 mm, ovate, apex acute, yellow, hairs on margins and on veins. Stamen 2.2 cm long; filament 2 cm long, yellow, glabrous, arching; anther 1.9–2 mm long, elliptic, apex truncate, yellow, crest absent, appendaged; style, filiform, tip broader than base, stigma 4–5 mm wide, clavate, ciliate. Ovary 0.4–0.5 × 0.2–0.3 cm, obovate, pale green, verrucose; epigynous glands 2, 0.4–0.5 cm long, linear, cream. Fruit 1.5 cm in length, linear, base obtuse, green, texture undulate, calyx persistent. Bulbils absent.

At present, we have seen this species in Reiek Tlang road, Mamit, Mizoram. We have observed ca. 30 individuals in an overall area of ca. 400 m². This species is lithophytic, mostly growing along the edge of roads with an elevation of ca. 300 m. We have observed different species of bees and butterflies visiting the flowers of this species. We have observed ants as seed dispersal for this species.

Flowering and fruiting were observed in the month of August.

This species epithet is in the memory of the late Mr. Rajesh Yadav, who was the father of the first author and was instrumental in the author’s progress in science and education.

This species is currently known from 4–5 small populations across Reiek-Tlang road (Mamit district) within the state of Mizoram, wherein each population is spread across 1–2 km along the edge of the road and has approximately 30 individuals each. Although this species is known only from the type locality, it could be more widespread in neighboring countries with similar habitats, we, therefore, assess it as Data Deficient (DD).

G. rahmanii: Bangladesh. Khagrachari: Dighinala- Marissha road, Teentila, 30 August 1997, Rahman et al., 1878 (HCU)

G. expansa: India. Assam: Jenkins F, Jenkins, F s.n. (L0487987), 1 May 1908, Alleizette AC d’, Alleizette, AC d’ 7115 (L0488012), 1 July 1909, Alleizette AC d’. Alleizette AC d’ s.n. (L0487993), 12 June 1910 (E00097428), Tea Deputation (NYBG04355596). West Bengal: Hortus Botanicus Calcuttensis, 22.559 N, 88.291 E, Anon 6536E (BM013718590), Circa Calcuttam, J. W. Helfer 192 (NYBG04355597). Thailand. Chiang Mai: Mae Rim, 19.166 N, 98.833 E, elevation 700 m, 8 August 1990, J. F. Maxwell 89-912 (L0413531), Mua ng, 18.833 N, 98.883 E, elevation 400 m, 3 July 1992, J. F. Maxwell 90-847 (L0413571), Maerim, 19.166 N, 98.833 E, elevation 700 m, 15 September 1995, J. F. Maxwell 92-358 (L0413518), Doi Intanon, 18.533 N, 98.566 E, elevation 1100-1200 m, 17 May 1995, Larsen K; Larsen SS; Tange C; Sookchaloem D, 46485 (L0413547), Sahngahmpang, Mae Awn, elevation 1050 m, 31 May 2006, J. F. Maxwell 95-403 (L0413491), Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, elevation 960 m, A.F.G. Kerr (E00097516), 18.55 N, 98.6 E, elevation 710 m, 19 September 2008, 4513 (E00533779), 18.855 N, 100.734 E, elevation 300 m, 16 August 2012, 5614 (E00680827), Fleuve Petchaponai, Pierre, L. (P00234360), Neeckey près Wangka, elevation 150 m, 9 May 1946, Hoed, G. den 246 (P00234428), elevation 10 km W Fang, 19.95 N, 99.183 E, elevation 600 m, 24 July 968, Larsen, K. Santisuk, T.Warncke, E. 2650 (P00234440), Bo Luang, 18.75 N, 98.416 E, elevation 1050 m, 12 June 1973, Geesink, R. Phanichapol, D. Santisuk, T. 5886 (P00234419), Mai Rim, Nae Rin, Doi Sutop Pui Natl. Park, elevation 700 m, 3 July 1992, J. F. Maxwell 92-356 (P00234313), Doi Suthep, elevation 975.36 m, 12 June 1910, 1214 (BM013718611), Ang-ka-noi, 26 June 1978, C. Phengklai, 4121 (NYBG04347253). Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Khammouan: Laos P.D.R., 18.394 N, 103.075 E, elevation 199 m, Newman MF; Thomas PI; Armstrong KE; Lamxay V; Sengdala K LAO-1529 (L0811897), Laos, 14.949 N, 106.886 E, elevation 105 m, 15 July 2009, VL1957 (E00640106), Phabat, 18.3944 N, 103.0758 E, elevation 199 m, 31 May 2006, Newman, M.F., Thomas, P., Armstrong, K., Lamxay, V., Sengdala, K. LAO1529 (P01743264), Luang Prabang, Mekong river, 19.8669 N, 102.0630 E, elevation 303 m, 12 June 2012, Jana Leong-Skornickova; Tran Huu Dang; Ota Sida; Kittisack Phoutthavong; Somdy Oudomsack JLS1688 (P00840173). Cambodia. Mondulkiri: 13.429 N, 103.763 E, elevation 491 m, 2 November 2006, Long, C. Cheng, K.C. Leti, M. CL435 (P00626289)

G. lancangensis: China. 22.061 N, 100.194 E, elevation 1210 m, 14 July 2000, 00-253 (E00187763), 22.543 N, 99.943 E, elevation 1080 m, 13 July 2000, 00-241 (E00187762).

The new species is similar to three species in flower color, and presence of four anther appendages. This species is different from G. rahmanii in its large inflorescence 6–35 cm (vs. 8–19 cm), small calyx 2–2.5 mm (vs. 3.5–5 mm), large ovary 3.5–3.7 mm (vs. 1 mm) and dorsal corolla lobes with a keel (vs. without a keel). This species is different from G. lancangensis and G. expansa in its inflorescence length 6–35 cm (vs. 10–27 cm), small calyx 2–2.5 mm (vs. 4 mm), absence of anther crest (vs. present), and pod shape fruit (vs. globose and ellipsoid). The detailed morphological comparisons between G. yadaviana and G. rahmanii, G. lancangensis, G. expansa are presented in Table 4.

G. rahmanii is distributed to Bangladesh, G. lancangensis is distributed to China, and G. expansa is distributed to Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia (Fig. 13).

Figure 13. 

Map showing the distribution of G. expansa, G. lancangensis, G. yadaviana sp. nov., and G. rahmanii.

A note on the taxonomic collection challenges in the ecologically sensitive Eastern Himalayas and northeast region of India, and recommendations

In the past few decades, the Eastern Himalayas and the Northeast India are two biodiversity-rich regions that have been constantly threatened by rapid development projects. The effects of ecological destruction caused in this region need special mention and attention because these regions are among the least explored areas in India for their flora, fauna, ecology, and evolutionary patterns, and they remain one of the most challenging regions for collection-based studies, both logistically and politically. Based on our decade-long experience of working in this region, we discuss below two main challenges in collection-based floristic and taxonomic studies: 1) access to study areas and associated logistic challenges, and 2) safety in the field.

1) Access to study areas—The only mode of transportation within Northeast India is by road, with a single rail line that connects Guwahati (Meghalaya) to Tinsukia (Arunachal Pradesh). The roadways within Northeast states are well-connected, but they are difficult to traverse due to poor road quality, and unpredictable landslides that can completely isolate large parts of this region for an indefinite time (Fig. 14). Lastly, the lack of frequent public transportation means that fieldwork can only be carried out using privately hired vehicles, which significantly increases fieldwork budgets.

Figure 14. 

Images depicting common logistic hurdles in field collections when working in the Northeast states of India A Willong Road, Manipur B mining in Cherrapunji road, Meghalaya C forest clearing, on the way to Thanamir, Nagaland D stone cutting Ziro road, Arunachal Pradesh E Mawphlang Sacred Grove, Meghalaya F roadblock because of a landslide in Lachen, Northern Sikkim. Photographs A, D by Ajith Ashokan B by N S Prasanna C by Aleena Xavier E, F by Y. Ritu.

One of the forest types that is challenging to access in the northeastern states is the sacred groves (Fig. 14E). Sacred groves cover over 40000 hectares of natural forest area across five states (Upadhyay et al. 2019) and they represent a valuable practice in conserving biodiversity, where local communities preserve a specific site untouched out of reverence for religious or cultural reasons. This conservation method is essential in protecting threatened flora and fauna from extinction as well as preserving socio-ecologically important species. While it is possible to access most sacred groves via research permits from the indigenous guardian communities, collecting samples within the groves is restricted. This presents a significant challenge in identifying species from these sacred groves since voucher collections from these locations are prohibited.

Other logistic challenges include scarcity of paid accommodations and access to basic amenities such as electricity for drying herbarium specimens. The high humidity in this region makes it difficult to dry specimens, especially in areas like Cherrapunji, Meghalaya, where rainfall can reach up to 450 inches (11430 mm). Finally, the absence of a continuous electrical power source also means that charging of field equipment such as cameras, GPS devices, power banks, and mobile phones becomes challenging here.

2) Safety in the field—The safety of researchers has been a major concern in the northeastern states due to the combination of natural disasters and political conflicts. This region shares political boundaries with five countries, making it a politically sensitive area, especially in regions closer to the political borders.

The Northeast states are biodiversity corridors between the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia (Ashokan et al. 2022, Prasanna et al. 2020). With the region’s needs to focus on development, it is very critical to take active measures in documenting the biodiversity present in this area. Our discovery of six new species highlights the importance of documenting and preserving the flora of this biodiverse region. Here, we have briefly discussed the research challenges in this region to highlight and emphasize the need for an active dialogue towards building local facilities for taxonomic studies such as botanical gardens, herbaria, and tissue collections. Based on our studies in the northeast region we suggest that a collective effort from local communities, researchers, taxonomists, forestry personnel, and policymakers are the need of the hour in order to mitigate biodiversity loss in this region.