In Odisha’s protected Simlipal forest, scientists have uncovered biological wealth. Similipal National Park in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha the biosphere reserve, is known to be famous for its thick forests, tigers, elephants and clean environment. This park is regarded as a pollution-free park which is home to many plants and animals, now with 148 lichen species out of the multiple species found. As reported by ANI, this is considered one of the highest ever in Odisha. This highlights the ecosystems found across India with massive potential in the smallest life forms that exist.

148 lichens discovered in Similipal National Park in Odisha

The biosphere reserve is famous for its dense forests and its wildlife. These microscopic life forms, called lichens found in the untouched zones of Similipal. This led the park to be a natural laboratory for researchers. According to the reports, many contain compounds such as thermoquinone, zeorin, and azelaic acid, which have potent anti-cancer effects and support the development of new medicines.Out of 148 identified lichen species, many were never been studied in depth while some contain anti-cancer properties, on the other side some showed antimicrobial properties and some also even showed potential of fighting against cellular damage. These not holds benefits in varied potential medicinal properties but also these helps lichens to survive in harsh environments too suitable for medical research.

Who led the research

The research was led by Professor Biswajit Rath from Maharaja Sri Ramchandra Bhindve University. According to him, the lichens were stored at the University and further studied their biopotential activities, including anti-cancer effects, which kill human pathogens and more are being highlighted. The lichens identified included Parmotrema, CLadonia, Heterodermia, Dirinaria, Trypetheliym, Dioygma and Graphis. Some were reported for the first time in India, and some were found for the first time in Odisha.

What are lichens

These are the organisms that are formed from fungi ang algae, growing in challenging conditions and withstand heat, heavyrain, diseases and more. They have special chemicals called bioactive compounds which act as the natural shield which can also help human health. Lichens were collected from the core, buffer and transition zones and other different parts of the park.