- Recently, a new plant species, Tetrataenium paikadae (Apiaceae family – includes commonly known plants like carrot and coriander) has been discovered in the high-altitude grasslands of Idukki district, located in the Western Ghats. The species was identified inside Eravikulam National Park.
- About Tetrataenium paikadae
- Grows in moist, marshy grasslands at elevations of 1,000–2,500 metres above sea level.
- Height: About 30–80 cm.
- Stem: Densely stiff-haired.
- Leaves: Ovate in shape.
- Flowers: Small white flowers arranged in clusters.
- Flowering period: July to September.
- Fruiting period: October to November.
- Researchers differentiated it from closely related species based on the number and structural arrangement of oil tubes (vittae) in its fruits, a key taxonomic character in Apiaceae plants.
