Researchers rediscover Lagenandra plant- By Dinuli Francisco

In triumph of scientific exploration, a dedicated research team has unearthed a plant species believed to have vanished into the annals of extinction. The Lagenandra plant, locally known as Ketala, once considered extinct in Sri Lanka, has been rediscovered in the lush surroundings of Molkawa in the Palindanuwara Divisional Secretariat Division in the Kalutara District.

The remarkable feat was achieved by Peshala Pasan Karunaratne, a student at the University of Vocational Technology and a devoted environmental researcher.

His expedition in 2022 at Molkawa bore fruit when he encountered the elusive Lagenandra plant.

Groundbreaking discovery

Following this groundbreaking discovery, comprehensive research was undertaken by a team of researchers from Northwestern University and the University of Peradeniya. Indrakila Madola, a post-graduate student at Northwestern University and a key member of the team, confirmed the existence of this presumed extinct plant species through meticulous examination of herbarium specimens, living plant samples and morphological attributes.

This extraordinary find is particularly significant as the plant currently lacks a known Sinhala or English name. It belongs to the genus Lagenandra within the Araceae family of the Alismatales order. With its native habitat in aquatic ecosystems, Lagenandra comprises 21 known species worldwide, 14 of which are native to Sri Lanka. Thirteen out of these 14 species are endemic to the country.

Lagenandra erosa once graced European shores as an ornamental aquatic plant over half a century ago in the 1970s. Yet, the original location of its natural population remained shrouded in mystery during its initial introduction. The Lagenandra erosa’s rediscovery in the wilds of Palindanuwara marks the first recorded instance of this species being found in its natural habitat.

The plant’s national conservation status, as per the 2022 National Red Data Report in Sri Lanka, is “Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct) (CR(PE)).”

Ornamental aquatic plant

Prof. Deepthi Yakandawala led the research findings and extensive data collection from the University of Peradeniya, Prof. Kapila Yakandawala from Northwestern University, Indrakila Madola from Northwestern University and Peshala Pasan Karunaratne from the University of Vocational Technology. Their comprehensive research, culminating in a 2023 publication, has been made available on the 27th International Research Papers website, (https://phytotaxa.mapress.com/pt/article/view/phytotaxa.622.3.5). The discovery adds tremendous value to Sri Lanka’s biodiversity heritage and bolsters the nation’s reputation in the field of plant research.

Nevertheless, Sri Lanka’s environment faces significant degradation, leading to the loss of plant species before they can even be identified. To counter this alarming trend, national-level efforts are needed to preserve the country’s existing ecosystems, ensuring the protection of rare and valuable plant species for the benefit of future generations.