148 species of lichens found in Simlipal National Park, the highest ever recorded in Odisha

148 lichen species found in Similipal National Park, Odisha. (Image: ANI)

• Scientists found 148 lichen species in Simlipal National Park, Odisha.
• Many lichens contain anticancer, antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds.
• New lichen species found in India and Odisha, emphasizing conservation needs.

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Scientists have uncovered remarkable biological wealth inside Odisha’s protected Simlipal forests. They identified 148 lichen species. These species contain anti-cancer, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This discovery highlights tiny organisms with massive potential for modern medical science. The finding strengthens arguments for conserving fragile ecosystems across India today.

Where The Discovery Happened? 

The research took place inside Simlipal National Park in northern Odisha. This biosphere reserve is famous for dense forests and rich wildlife. It shelters tigers elephants birds insects and rare plant species. Now it also protects valuable microscopic life forms called lichens. Simlipal’s untouched zones proved ideal for their growth. This made the park a natural laboratory for researchers.

#WATCH | Mayurbhanj, Odisha: Researchers from Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University in Baripada found 148 lichen species in Similipal National Park, the highest ever in Odisha. Many contain compounds such as thermoquinone, zeorin, and azelaic acid, which have potent… pic.twitter.com/apL6nb49jx

— ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2026

The Searchers of the Invisible

Professor Biswajit Rath from Maharaja Sri Ramchandra Bhindve University is behind this research. His team identified 148 lichen species in Simlipal National Park. One from these species is new to Odisha, and another is found for the first time in the country.

Each specimen was labelled and preserved for analysis. Back in laboratories, scientists examined chemical compositions. Modern testing methods revealed valuable bioactive compounds.

What these Lichens Revealed? 

The researchers identified 148 different lichen species. Many had never been studied in detail before. Several contained compounds with anticancer properties. Others showed strong antimicrobial activity. Some demonstrated antioxidant potential against cellular damage.

These chemicals help lichens survive harsh conditions. They also make them useful for medical research. Similar compounds have inspired modern drugs in the past. This discovery opens new paths for pharmaceutical exploration.

What are these species known as?

The lichens found are Parmotrema, Cladonia, Heterodermia, Dirinaria, Trypethelium, Diorygma and Graphis. Some are very rare or new to the area. New species Physciella melanchra is recorded for the first time in India and Cladonia fruticulosa is a first for Odisha. The team collected lichens from different parts of the park. The data collected from core, buffer and transition zones of Odisha.

What Comes Next for these Lichens? 

Simlipal’s lichens show that science still hides in plain sight. They remind us that even the smallest life forms matter. From tree bark to test tubes, a journey has begun. It links ancient forests with future medicine. Compounds such as antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer properties present in these lichen species can help in cure major diseases.