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Context :

• A recent study has raised concerns about the threat to native biodiversity
• It is due to the presence of Ruellia elegans.
• It is a flowering plant from Brazil.
• And It was recorded for the first time in Digboi. Digboi is an oil town in Assam.
• This shows the plant's growing presence & its potential impact on local ecosystems.

About Ruellia Elegans

• Scientific Classification:
  • Ruellia elegans is an invasive plant. And native to Latin America ( Brazil).
  • It is commonly known by several names like :
    • Brazilian Petunia
    • Christmas Pride
    • Elegant Ruellia
    • Red Ruellia
    • Wild Petunia
  • The plant is recognized for its pleasing appearance. Also it is described as elegant due to its bright flowers.

Appearance

• Flowers: The plant produces bright red trumpet shaped flowers.
• Foliage: It has clusters of soft green, semi hairy leaves that grow up to 12 inches high and 24 inches in diameter.

Habitat and Life Cycle

• Habitat: wet tropical biome.
  • It can also tolerate light frost but it also dies back when temperatures fall to 28°F (-2°C).
• Life Cycle: The plant is annual. meaning it completes its life cycle in one year.
• Soil Texture: high organic matter & loam (silt).

Conservation Status

• Not Assessed: The conservation status of Ruellia elegans has not been formally assessed yet.

Threats and Challenges

• Plant Diseases: The plant faces threats from bacterial leaf spots, fungal leaf spots, rust, & root rot.
• Invasive Nature: It is one of 4 invasive species of the Acanthoideae sub family in India along with Ruellia ciliatiflora, Ruellia simplex, & Ruellia tuberosa.

Presence in India

• Introduction to India: Ruellia elegans was introduced in the Andaman Islands and it has spread to other regions, including Jamaica & Puerto Rico.
• Native Ruellia Species: India is home to 6 native species of Ruellia, including:
  • Ruellia beddomei
  • Ruellia ciliata
  • Ruellia malabarica
  • Ruellia patula
  • Ruellia sibua
  • Ruellia sivarajanii

Source: TH