Root holoparasite Balanophora polyandra Griff. (Balanophoraceae) in eastern Himalaya (Sikkim, India): Distribution, range, status and threats

Abstract

Balanophora J.R. Forster & G. Forster (Balanophoraceae) is a poorly studied genus of root holoparasite native to temperate and tropical regions of Asia and the Pacific. The occurrences of Balanophora polyandra Griff. were first reported within two protected areas in eastern Himalaya (Sikkim, India), namely, Khangchendzonga National Park and Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary. The study assessed the distribution range of B. polyandra in Sikkim using data collected from both field surveys and herbarium records, and discussed the threats faced by Balanophora populations in the region.