Daily Current Affairs : 30-May-2024
A new plant species, Stellaria mcclintockiae, has been observed in the Nelliyampathy hills of Kerala, India. This discovery is particularly significant due to the fact that the plant is named after Nobel laureate Barbara McClintock, who is famous for her groundbreaking studies on jumping genes. The species was identified as the first of its kind in South India, and it has unique features that make it stand out from other plants in the Stellaria family.
The Unique Features of Stellaria mcclintockiae
The newly discovered Stellaria mcclintockiae is an annual herb that thrives at high elevations, generally between 1,250 and 1,400 meters above sea level. Several aspects of this plant make it special, including:
- Petals: The plant has distinctive petals that set it apart from other species within the same genus.
- Pollen: The structure of the pollen is unique to this species.
- Bracts and Sepals: These parts of the plant have unusual characteristics not seen in other Stellaria species.
- Seeds: The seeds of Stellaria mcclintockiae also exhibit differences that help in its identification.
These features make Stellaria mcclintockiae an exciting addition to the scientific world, offering researchers a better understanding of plant diversity in the region.
Barbara McClintock and Jumping Genes
The plant is named in honor of Barbara McClintock, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983. McClintock’s research on jumping genes (or transposable elements) revolutionized our understanding of genetics.
Jumping genes are DNA sequences that can move around within the genome. These genes can:
- Activate or deactivate nearby genes
- Replicate and insert copies of themselves at new locations within the genome
- Cause genetic mutations and contribute to the evolution of genomes over time
McClintock’s discovery of these mobile genetic elements has had a profound impact on the study of genetics and evolution.
Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of Stellaria mcclintockiae in the Nelliyampathy hills highlights the importance of biodiversity in India. This plant species adds to the richness of South India’s flora and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to explore and protect the natural world. By naming the plant after Barbara McClintock, scientists also honor her legacy and emphasize the importance of genetic research in understanding life on Earth.
Important Points:
Discovery of Stellaria mcclintockiae:
- A new plant species discovered in Kerala’s Nelliyampathy hills.
- Named after Nobel laureate Barbara McClintock for her research on jumping genes.
- The first Stellaria species reported from South India.
Unique Features of Stellaria mcclintockiae:
- An annual herb found at elevations between 1,250 and 1,400 meters above sea level.
- Petals: Distinctive petals that differentiate it from other species in the genus.
- Pollen: Unique structure of pollen.
- Bracts and Sepals: Unusual characteristics not seen in other Stellaria species.
- Seeds: Distinct seeds that help in its identification.
Barbara McClintock and Jumping Genes:
- McClintock won the Nobel Prize in 1983 for her research on transposable elements (jumping genes).
- Jumping genes are DNA sequences that move within the genome and can:
- Activate or deactivate nearby genes.
- Replicate and insert copies at new genome locations.
- Cause genetic mutations and contribute to evolution.
Significance of the Discovery:
- Adds to the biodiversity of South India.
- Highlights the importance of protecting natural habitats and exploring plant diversity.
- Honors McClintock’s legacy and the role of genetic research in understanding life on Earth.
Why In News
A new plant species, Stellaria mcclintockiae, was recently discovered in Kerala’s Nelliyampathy hills and named in honor of Nobel laureate Barbara McClintock, renowned for her discovery of Jumping Genes. This marks the first Stellaria species to be reported from South India. The annual herb, which thrives at elevations ranging from 1,250 to 1,400 meters, is notable for its distinctive petals, pollen, bracts, sepals, and seeds. The discovery not only adds a new species to India’s rich biodiversity but also underscores the significance of understanding plant diversity in high-altitude ecosystems.
MCQs about The Discovery of Stellaria mcclintockiae
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What is the scientific name of the newly discovered plant species in Kerala’s Nelliyampathy hills?
A. Stellaria mccarthyensis
B. Stellaria mcclintockiae
C. Stellaria keraliensis
D. Stellaria elevata
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What is the elevation range where *Stellaria mcclintockiae* is found?
A. 500-1,000 meters
B. 1,000-1,250 meters
C. 1,250-1,400 meters
D. 1,500-1,800 meters
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Why is the plant *Stellaria mcclintockiae* named after Barbara McClintock?
A. For her work on plant genetics
B. For her discovery of jumping genes
C. For her research on high-altitude ecosystems
D. For her discovery of new plant species
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Which of the following is a unique characteristic of *Stellaria mcclintockiae*?
A. It grows only in coastal regions.
B. It has unique petals, pollen, bracts, sepals, and seeds.
C. It is found only in tropical rainforests.
D. It produces a bright red flower.
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