Trichoglossum syamviswanathii

Trichoglossum syamviswanathii is a newly discovered fungus species within the Geoglossaceae family, known for its distinctive “hairy earth tongue” appearance. Discovered in February 2024 near the Bambusetum at KFRI’s field research center in Kerala, the fungus was named in honor of Dr. Syam Viswanath, a notable forestry researcher and former director of KFRI. The discovery team included experts from KFRI, BSI, and the University of Hyderabad. This species is crucial for the decomposition of dead plant materials, playing a significant role in nutrient recycling within forest ecosystems. The discovery highlights the importance of ongoing research into the diverse flora and fauna of the Western Ghats and opens avenues for future studies on its potential medicinal or biotechnological applications.