Research Paper

Piptatherum nandadeviense (Poaceae, Stipeae), a new grass species from India

Sangam Sharma, Smita Tiwari, Dileshwar Prasad, Fazal Husain, Nutan Srivastava, Priyanka Agnihotri

Published on: 08 September 2026

Page: 695 - 700

DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.695

Abstract

The ricegrass species Piptatherum nandadeviense sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and Valley of Flowers National Park, Western Himalaya, India. The new species is morphologically similar to P. munroi in having spreading panicle branches but is clearly distinguished from the latter in its characteristic features of leaf sheath, ligules, panicle, and spikelet. In addition, data on distribution, habitat, associated species, flowering and fruiting, and taxonomic notes are provided, along with photo plates and a distribution map.

Keyword: Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Oryzopsis, Piptatherum grandispiculum, Piptatherum munroi, Pooideae

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