Karyomorphological analysis of recently described rare species of Dipcadi medik (Hyacinthaceae) from northern western ghats

Abstract

Dipcadi goaense A.Prabhugaonkar, U.S.Yadav and Janarth. is so far known from type locality with a single population spread over about 1 sq.km. in south Goa. It is allied to D. concanense (Dalz.) Baker but differs in its small flowers and funnel-shaped perianth tube. The present paper describes the distribution, ornamental potential and karyotype analysis and reports on meiotic count in the species. The haploid chromosome number n=6, somatic chromosome number 2n=12 and karyotypic analysis is reported for the first time for the species. The bimodal asymmetrical karyotype represents an advanced nature of the taxon. It has glistening white fragrant flowers of considerable ornamental potential.The species can be best conserved through its utilization as an ornamental bulbous plant by introduction in gardens.