New Edible Tuber Species Discovered

Summary of the Discovery of a New Tuber Species in Kerala

• Discovery: Researchers from Kerala have identified a new edible tuber species, named Dioscorea balakrishnanii, in the Western Ghats region specifically within Wayanad district.
• Naming: The species is named after V. Balakrishnan, an environmentalist and current secretary of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, in recognition of his contributions to biodiversity conservation.
• Local Significance: The tuber, locally known as ‘chola kizhangu’ among the Kattunayikar tribes, is noted for its excellent flavor when cooked and holds potential in addressing food security due to its low glycemic index.
• Research Team: The discovery was made by Pichan M. Salim from the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, Jose Mathew from Sanatana Dharma College, and M.M. Safir from Kerala Agricultural University.
• Ecological Context: The Dioscorea balakrishnanii species was found exclusively in the sholas of evergreen forests and represents a part of the biodiversity found in the Wayanad region, which is rich in wild relatives of cultivated tubers.
• Relative Species: The research indicates the existence of 23 different forms across more than 14 species of tubers in Wayanad, including the newly described species, highlighting the region's ecological richness.
• Plant Family: The newly identified yam belongs to the Dioscoreaceae family, which includes commonly cultivated forms like kachil or kavat (purple yam).
• Observational Studies: Dioscorea balakrishnanii has been subject to observation over a decade, distinguishing male and female varieties along with documenting their floral differences.
• Conservation Importance: The discovery underscores the ecological significance of conserving unique ecosystems and emphasizes the medicinal potential of such wild tubers alongside their importance for food security.
• Biodiversity Implications: The findings suggest that the biodiversity within the Wayanad forests remains underexplored, indicating potential for further discoveries.

Key Dates and Publication:

• The research findings were published on August 31, 2025, in the scientific journal Species.

This discovery not only contributes to knowledge related to endemic species but also reinforces efforts towards biodiversity conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources in the region.