Unveiling ‘Abelmoschus Odishae’: The New Wild Okra Species

Discovery and Habitat

• Recently discovered in the Banspal block of Odisha’s Keonjhar district, a scientist from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has unveiled a new plant species named ‘Abelmoschus Odishae.’ This exceptional find occurred in the lush surroundings of a humid deciduous forest.

Potential Contributions

• This newfound wild okra species showcases promising potential in hybridization efforts aimed at developing enhanced okra varieties. Its unique traits could play a pivotal role in creating variants with heightened disease resistance, thereby enriching the genetic diversity of the okra plant.

Noteworthy Characteristics

• The ‘Abelmoschus Odishae’ is a perennial shrub standing tall at about 5 meters, characterized by a densely hispid, spiny stem adorned with backward-facing hairs. Its captivating appearance is accentuated by large, vivid yellow flowers. Furthermore, the seeds, nearly kidney-shaped and equipped with short, robust, non-spiral trichomes, exhibit an impressive viability rate of 95 percent.

Insights into Okra

• Popularly known as gumbo or ladies’ fingers, okra, originating from the Eastern Hemisphere’s tropics, thrives in warm climates and is extensively cultivated or naturally found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Western Hemisphere. Renowned for its nutritional richness—abundant in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber—okra stands out for its mild flavor and unique texture. Its exterior features a peach-like fuzz, encasing small, edible seeds within.

Conclusion

• The discovery of ‘Abelmoschus Odishae’ marks a significant milestone, potentially reshaping the future of okra cultivation and its genetic diversity. This newfound wild okra species presents an exciting avenue for further exploration and utilization in agricultural advancements.