Nagaland University researchers discover new plant species

Researchers from Nagaland University have discovered a new plant species, Hoya nagaensis (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae), during extensive field surveys conducted between 2023 and 2025 in the Kavünhou Community Reserved Forest, Khezhakeno village, Phek district.
In a press release, NU, HQ: Lumami PRO Peter Ki informed that the discovery was led by Dr. Gyati Yam, with researchers Vieneite-o Koza and Joynath Pegu. The project was supported by NU through the Start-Up Project for Young Faculty (SUPYF).
The findings have been published in the prestigious international journal Kew Bulletin.
The new species was identified through systematic botanical exploration in the high-altitude forests of Phek district.
The specific epithet “nagaensis” is derived from “Nagaland,” honouring the state’s cultural heritage and the ecological significance of its forest ecosystems.
The discovery highlights Nagaland’s importance as a biodiversity hotspot in Northeast India and emphasises the vital role of community-protected forests in conservation.