Critically endangered agarwood tree discovered in Assam, expanding known habitat

First Image: Aquilaria khasiana Hallier f. – a. & b. Habit; c. Inflorescence affected by feeding of Heortia vitessoides larvae; d. Leaf affected by feeding of Heortia vitessoides larvae; e. & f. Habit; g. Inflorescence. (a–d: Plants at Mawkasain, Meghalaya; e–g: Plants at Jeypore Reserve Forest, Assam). Second Image: Aquilaria khasiana Hallier f. – (a) Habit; (b) Inflorescence; (c) Single flower (front view); (d) Single flower (side view); (e) f. & g. Split open calyx tube; h. Anther; i. & j. Gynoecium; k. Gynoecium-hair. [a–f: S. Sengupta 101066 (CAL); g–k: R. Layola M.R. & B. Mallick 95387 (CAL)]. (Image: Scientific Reports)

A tree once thought confined to Meghalaya’s hills has reappeared. And not just reappeared—but with over 200 mature individuals in Assam’s Jeypore Reserve Forest. For a species believed to be on the brink, this discovery offers a rare glimmer of hope.

The rare agarwood-producing tree, Aquilaria khasiana, was officially confirmed in Assam by scientists from the Botanical Survey of India. Their research, published in Scientific Reports, marks the first-ever documentation of this species outside Meghalaya.

DNA Unlocks Assam Connection

Researchers used physical traits and DNA barcoding to verify the tree’s identity. They also decoded its full chloroplast genome—another first for the species. This study showed that Assam’s trees match those found earlier in East Khasi Hills.

Until recently, the species was thought to exist only in small, scattered patches in Meghalaya. It was rediscovered there in 2016 after more than six decades, but only nine individuals—including one mature tree—were found. A 2023–24 field survey reported that only five remain.

By contrast, Jeypore Reserve Forest in Assam now holds at least 210 mature trees. This sudden spike in known numbers has surprised botanists and may help safeguard the species from extinction.

A Taxonomic Puzzle

Despite showing typical Aquilaria features, the Assam trees clustered genetically with Gyrinops walla, a related species found in Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats. Scientists say this blurring of genetic lines needs deeper study.

The species belongs to a group of trees prized for agarwood—a fragrant resin used in perfumes and incense. Because it fetches high prices, the tree faces illegal harvesting and widespread habitat loss.

In Meghalaya, the last mature tree is struggling to survive. Insect damage, fires, logging, and firewood collection have all taken a toll. The surrounding grasslands are also shrinking fast.

Urgent Protection Needed

Despite this Assam discovery, experts warn the species remains in danger. Past population drops exceed 80 percent, and threats still loom large. The researchers recommend A. khasiana retain its Critically Endangered status under IUCN criteria.

They urge Assam and Meghalaya authorities to step in. Immediate protection, monitoring, and a formal species recovery plan are essential. Without action, the Assam find could be a short-lived miracle.

“This tree has held on quietly for decades,” one author wrote. “Now it’s our turn to ensure it keeps standing.”