Extended distribution of an endemic variety Glochidion zeylanicum var. paucicarpum Chakrab. & N.P. Balakr. (Phyllanthaceae) from Assam, India

Glochidion zeylanicum var. paucicarpum Chakrab. & N.P. Balakr., an endemic variety of family Phyllanthaceae, was recorded for the first time in Assam. The species was collected while working on the taxonomic study of the genus Glochidion in Assam. After a rational evaluation of published work on distribution, this variety was previously recorded only from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bay of Bengal, India and reported as an endemic variety under the species G. zeylanicum (Gaertn.) A.Juss. But the present study revealed that its occurrence in Kokrajhar district set extended distribution records for Assam including northeast India. The present communication deals with thorough taxonomic descriptions, phenology, habitat and ecology, distribution, threat status, and photographs, including a distribution map of the taxa for better taxonomic identity. Although the present study area recorded less population of the plant, the plant has been commonly used as medicine by the local community. Based on the threat status in the present work, the plant can be assigned to an endangered category. The present communication recorded an extended occurrence of the plant in Assam, so further population study of the plant in other regions of India is also needed.