Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?
Explanation
Scientists from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have discovered a new species of banana, Musa indandamanensis, in the remote tropical rainforests of Little Andaman Island. This remarkable species stands out for its exceptional height, reaching up to 11 meters, nearly three times taller than common banana plants.
Located 16 km inside the Krishna Nalah forest, this species is globally distinct due to its unique green flowers, an unusually large fruit bunch axis (lux) thrice the size of regular banana species, and cylindrical-shaped flowers instead of the typical conical form. Additionally, the fruit pulp is orange, differing from the usual white or yellow found in common bananas.
This discovery adds significant value to botanical research and biodiversity conservation, highlighting the unique flora of the Andaman Islands.