Which region is the recently discovered new species Uniyala keralensis endemic to?

The correct answer is Southwest India.

In News

• A new plant species named Uniyala keralensis (family Asteraceae) has been identified in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, Kerala.

Key Points

• Uniyala keralensis is a dense shrub with light purple flowers.
• The species was first collected 27 years ago but has now been confirmed as a distinct species.
• It belongs to the family Asteraceae and is endemic to southwest India.
• The species is named after Kerala, where it was discovered.

Additional Information

• The **Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve** is a UNESCO-listed site known for its rich biodiversity.
• The **Asteraceae family** includes over 32,000 species of flowering plants worldwide.
• This discovery highlights the importance of **long-term botanical research** in identifying new plant species.
• Uniyala keralensis adds to the growing list of **endemic flora** unique to Kerala’s ecosystems.