Nagaland University scientists discover new plant species in community-protected forests
In a significant boost to India’s botanical records, researchers from Nagaland University have discovered a new plant species in the high-altitude forests of Nagaland—once again underscoring the Northeast’s status as one of the country’s most important yet under-documented biodiversity hotspots.
The newly identified species, Hoya nagaensis, was found during systematic botanical explorations in remote, community-protected forests of the state. The discovery not only adds a new species to global plant science but also highlights the critical role played by traditional forest stewardship practiced by Naga communities in conserving rare and endemic flora.
The research was led by Dr. Gyati Yam, Principal Investigator and Assistant Professor, Department of Forestry, Nagaland University, along with Ms. Vieneite-o Koza and Mr. Joynath Pegu, researchers at the University. The study was funded by Nagaland University under the Start-Up Project for Young Faculty (SUPYF).
The findings have been published in Kew Bulletin (DOI: 10.1007/s12225-025-10359-9), a globally respected, peer-reviewed journal of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, known for authoritative research in plant taxonomy and biodiversity.
A species hidden in plain sight
Despite Nagaland’s rich forest cover, large areas remain scientifically unexplored, limiting accurate biodiversity assessments and conservation planning. The research team conducted extensive field surveys and detailed taxonomic studies in under-explored high-altitude forests to bridge this knowledge gap.
“Our work focused on documenting plant diversity in forests that have received very little scientific attention,” said Dr. Gyati Yam. “Beyond identifying a new species, we sought to understand how community-reserved forests function as safe havens for fragile and rare ecosystems.”
Community forests emerge as biodiversity strongholds
Congratulating the research team, Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor, Nagaland University, said the discovery carries implications far beyond taxonomy.
“This discovery highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of Northeast India and provides strong evidence that community-protected forests in Nagaland are vital refuges for rare and endemic plant species. The study strengthens India’s botanical records while contributing valuable data to global conservation science.”
Critically Endangered and found nowhere else
According to the researchers, Hoya nagaensis is currently known from a single location—the Kavünhou Community Reserved Forest in Phek district. Due to its extremely restricted distribution and threats such as shifting cultivation and forest disturbance, the species has been provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered.
“The fact that this species survives at all is a testament to the effectiveness of traditional forest governance systems,” said Mr. Joynath Pegu. “Local communities have protected these forests for generations, often without formal recognition, yet their role in biodiversity conservation is undeniable.”
A distinct addition to the Hoya genus
Ms. Vieneite-o Koza noted that the plant displays distinctive leaf shapes and floral characteristics that clearly set it apart from other known species in the Hoya genus.
“This is a species previously unknown to science. Its formal description enhances the taxonomic framework of the genus and reinforces the global importance of Nagaland’s forests as reservoirs of botanical novelty.”
Looking ahead
Future research will focus on long-term monitoring, ecological and pollination studies, assessing conservation threats, and exploring the plant’s ornamental potential. The team also plans to extend surveys to nearby forest areas, which may harbour additional undocumented species.
Beyond its scientific value, the discovery of Hoya nagaensis brings renewed attention to the Eastern Himalaya’s temperate forests, positioning them as critical frontiers for biodiversity research and conservation.
