Canscora agni (Gentianaceae), a new species from the fire-prone Indian savannas

Abstract

We describe Canscora agni from the Indian savannas as a distinct species which differs from its allied species Canscora alata in having fewer and shorter leaves, pedicel-wings unequal across the length, bracts with glandular hair on the margins, calyx-wings being four, wider, up to 2.3 mm, with distinct reticulate venation and having ovary length up to 5 mm. We provide detailed notes on the habitat and ecology of this species including factors that predict plant diversity at the type locality. Finally, we highlight the importance of frequent fires in the mesic savannas of India, and advocate for better appreciation of this ancient force of nature for conservation of savanna biodiversity.