Calamagrostis nandadeviensis (Poaceae, Agrostidinae), a new grass species from India

Researchers have identified Calamagrostis nandadeviensis, a new grass species belonging to the Poaceae family, found in India's Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks. This discovery expands the diversity of the Calamagrostis genus, with C. nandadeviensis distinguished by its deeply bifid palea and fused lodicules, setting it apart from related species like C. lahulensis and C. scabrescens. The study provides detailed morphological descriptions, distribution data, habitat insights, and biotic associations, supported by illustrations and comparative photographs. This finding contributes to the understanding of grass biodiversity in the region, particularly within UNESCO-listed ecosystems.

PRASAD, D., TRIPATHI, S., JAISWAL, S., YADAV, R., & AGNIHOTRI, P. (2021). Calamagrostis nandadeviensis (Poaceae, Agrostidinae), a new grass species from India. Phytotaxa, 505(2). https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.505.2.8