Root holoparasite Balanophora polyandra Griff. (Balanophoraceae) in eastern Himalaya (Sikkim, India): distribution, range, status and threats

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Published: Jul 26, 2018
DOI: https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.3644.10.8.12123-12129
Keywords:
Balanophora, India, root holoparasite, Sikkim Himalaya.

Main Article Content

Prem K. Chhetri
G.B.Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Sikkim unit, India
Alexander R. O’Neill
G.B.Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Sikkim unit, India
Bijoy Chhetri
G.B.Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Sikkim unit, India

Abstract

Balanophora J.R. Forster & G. Forster (Balanophoraceae) is a poorly studied genus of root holoparasite native to temperate and tropical regions of Asia and the Pacific.  The occurrences of Balanophora polyandra Griff. were first reported within two protected areas in eastern Himalaya (Sikkim, India), namely, Khangchendzonga National Park and Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary.  The study assessed the distribution range of B. polyandra in Sikkim using data collected from both field surveys and herbarium records, and discussed the threats faced by Balanophora populations in the region.

Article Details

Issue
Vol. 10 No. 8 (2018)
Section
Short Communications

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Author Biographies

Prem K. Chhetri, G.B.Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Sikkim unit, India

Project fellow

Alexander R. O’Neill, G.B.Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Sikkim unit, India

Fullbright Scholar

Bijoy Chhetri, G.B.Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Sikkim unit, India

Project Fellow

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