Extinct No More: Kerala's 'Miracle Plant' Haplothismia exannulata Steals Spotlight at Wildlife Week

The Wildlife Week exhibition at Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in Kerala has been named after Haplothismia exannulata, a tiny plant that was rediscovered in the forest in 1998 after more than a century without a trace. The exhibition, part of the annual Wildlife Week celebrations, highlights the plant's remarkable story of survival and the reserve's biodiversity.

Haplothismia exannulata, a mycoheterotrophic plant that lacks chlorophyll, was first described in 1922 from the Palakkad gap region but was not seen again until its rediscovery in 1998 at Parambikulam. The plant's survival underscores the ecological significance of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Officials from the Kerala Forest Department emphasized that the exhibition aims to educate the public about the importance of preserving such rare species and their habitats.

The naming of the exhibition after this plant serves as a powerful symbol of hope for conservation efforts worldwide. It highlights the critical role of protected areas like Parambikulam in safeguarding biodiversity and the need for continued research and monitoring. As Wildlife Week progresses, the story of Haplothismia exannulata is expected to inspire further conservation initiatives and draw attention to the rich natural heritage of the region.