Portulaca Bharat

Portulaca Bharat : Recently, scientists discovered a new species of flowering plant, Portulaca bharat, in the rocky landscapes of the Aravalli Hills near Jaipur.

• About Portulaca Bharat: Habitat: Grows on dry, rocky slopes in the Aravalli hill range.

o Leaf Structure: Characterized by opposite, slightly concave leaves.

o Flowers: Display pale yellow petals with creamish-white tips.

o Distinctive Traits: Includes glandular hairs on the stamen filaments and thick, robust roots, possibly an adaptation to the harsh terrain.

o Threats include urban expansion, mining activities, and climate change.

o Considered as micro-endemic and highly vulnerable, given its extremely limited distribution and small population.

o Currently listed as "Data Deficient" under IUCN Red List criteria due to the lack of comprehensive population data.