In a recent botanical discovery, researchers have unveiled two new ginger species in Meghalaya’s Double Decker Living Root Bridge area. These plants, named "dancing girls" for their unique flower shapes, were found by Vinita Gowda and Ritu Yadav from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal. Their fieldwork took place during the monsoon months of August and September 2022.

Globba tyrnaensis and Globba janakiae are the newly identified species. Globba, a genus in the ginger family, is known for its delicate, ornamental flowers. These plants are commonly found in tropical regions, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Eastern Himalayas. The new species are notable for their distinctive floral structures that resemble dancers.

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Globba tyrnaensis: A Unique Discovery

Globba tyrnaensis was discovered in Tyrna village, Cherrapunji, within the East Khasi Hills district. It thrives at an elevation of around 731 meters. The plant's vibrant orange flowers and short inflorescence set it apart from related species like Globba orixensis and Globba macroclada. It produces bulbils that aid in its propagation. The species is found in shaded forest understories, benefiting from the region’s high rainfall.

Globba tyrnaensis is currently known from just two populations, each about 400 square meters in size. Its limited distribution has led to an informal classification as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Habitat disturbance poses a significant threat to its survival, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.

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Globba janakiae: Honouring a Botanical Pioneer

The second species, Globba janakiae, was also discovered in the same area. It shares its habitat with Globba tyrnaensis but has a smaller known population. This species differs from Globba orixensis and Globba macroclada in its shorter inflorescence and absence of inflorescence bracts. Its orange flowers feature heart-shaped labellum structures with small horn-like appendages, making it unique. Like Globba tyrnaensis, it also produces bulbils.

Globba janakiae is named in honour of Dr. E. K. Janaki Ammal, a pioneering Indian botanist who made significant contributions to plant science and conservation. This species has been informally assessed as critically endangered, with fewer than 10 mature individuals in the wild. Its restricted distribution and habitat destruction pose severe risks.

This discovery not only enriches our understanding of the region's flora but also underscores the urgent need for conservation to protect these unique and vulnerable species.

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