Oedocladium sahyadricum

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Context:

• A group of psychologists from the Department of Botany at Catholicate College in Pathanamthitta has discovered a new algal species in the Western Ghats.

Oedocladium sahyadricum

• It was discovered in the natural forests of Kumbhavurutty region in Kollam.
• This is the first time a species in the Oedocladium category has been recorded in Kerala.
• The name ‘sahyadricum’ refers to the Western Ghats, also known as Sahyadri, which is rich in plant diversity and provides ideal conditions for the growth of terrestrial microalgae.
• This discovery has been published in Taiwania, an International Journal of Biodiversity.
• The species, looks like moss protonema, is velvety green but turns yellowish-green as it matures.
• Application:
  • In medicine, agriculture, and in the production of a natural pigment, astaxanthin which is well-documented for its unique biological activities and health benefits.

Source:

https://epaper.thehindu.com/ccidist-ws/th/th_international/issues/84711/OPS/G5DCRQTAP.1.png?cropFromPage=true