A rare Rhododendron wattii tree standing alone in a popular trekking destination in Nagaland highlights the urgent threat to this species.
About Rhododendron wattii:
- Growth & Habitat: Rhododendron wattii primarily grows in the temperate biome as either a shrub or a small tree.
- Endemic Range: This species is endemic to Manipur and Nagaland and is especially found in its natural habitat at Dzukou Valley, Nagaland.
- Historical Discovery: The species was first collected by Sir George Watt from Nagaland’s Japfu Hill range during his 1882-85 survey.
- Evergreen Nature: It is an evergreen plant, meaning leaf renewal occurs throughout the year.
- Flowering & Fruiting Cycle: The tree follows a distinct flowering and fruiting pattern:
- Flowering period: February to April.
- Fruiting period: April to December.
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- Pollination & Ecological Role: The species is foraged and pollinated by the Fire-tailed Sunbird and bumble bees, playing a crucial role in the local ecosystem.
- Conservation Status: The species is classified by IUCN as Vulnerable due to
- Severe population fragmentation.
- Limited area of occupancy, which is less than 500 sq. km.
- Threats to Survival:
- Poor seedling survivability.
- Anthropogenic activities, such as deforestation and habitat destruction.
- Wildfires, which further reduce its already fragmented population.
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