Balakrishnanii yam has emerged as a fascinating new addition to the rich biodiversity of India’s Western Ghats. Scientifically named Dioscorea balakrishnanii, this edible tuber was recently identified in the evergreen shola forests of Wayanad, Kerala. Locally known as “chola kizhangu” among the Kattunayikar tribes, the yam is not just another wild plant but a potential game-changer in food security, agriculture, and biodiversity conservation.
Discovery and Local Significance
The discovery of Dioscorea balakrishnanii is the result of more than a decade of patient observation and research. Although the yam was long known and consumed by local tribes, its scientific recognition came only recently. Researchers noted its distinct male and female flowers, which set it apart from other wild yam species.
For the Kattunayikar tribal community, this yam has been an integral part of their traditional diet. The tribes, who live in close harmony with the forests, have used chola kizhangu for generations, recognizing its nutritional value and delicious flavour. Their role in preserving and passing down knowledge of this yam highlights the importance of indigenous communities in biodiversity discovery and conservation.
Scientific and Nutritional Value
One of the most striking features of Dioscorea balakrishnanii is its low glycemic index, which makes it particularly valuable in modern food systems. Foods with a low glycemic index release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, making them suitable for people managing diabetes or seeking healthy carbohydrate alternatives.
Beyond its health benefits, the yam’s taste and texture make it promising for wider culinary use. Given the rising demand for natural and traditional foods, the Balakrishnanii yam could potentially be cultivated on a larger scale, contributing to local and global markets for nutritious tubers.
A Tribute Through Naming
The species has been named in honour of Dr. V. Balakrishnan, Deputy Superintendent of Police and a dedicated environmentalist. Dr. Balakrishnan’s contributions to biodiversity research in Wayanad include documenting edible plants and advocating for stronger biodiversity laws. He played a role in implementing the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, 2001, which safeguards the rights of farmers and promotes conservation.
Interestingly, this is not the first species named after him, marking the deep respect the scientific community has for his tireless efforts in ecological preservation.
Wayanad: A Hotspot of Yam Diversity
The Western Ghats, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. Wayanad, in particular, is home to over 23 varieties of wild yams across 14 species. These yams are not only vital to the food systems of tribal communities but also represent a genetic reservoir for future agricultural innovations.
The shola forests, where Balakrishnanii yam thrives, are unique ecosystems known for their rich flora and fauna. Conserving these habitats is essential to ensure the survival of species like Dioscorea balakrishnanii.
Food Security and Agricultural Potential
As the world grapples with challenges like climate change, soil degradation, and food scarcity, the discovery of resilient and nutritious crops becomes increasingly important. Balakrishnanii yam offers hope as a sustainable food source. Its adaptability to forest ecosystems and nutritional qualities make it a strong candidate for domestication and cultivation.
Introducing such species into agricultural systems can diversify food crops, reduce dependence on a few staples, and contribute to food security. Its excellent flavour further enhances its market appeal, making it a potential crop for both local consumption and commercial farming.
The Role of Indigenous Knowledge
The contribution of the Kattunayikar tribe in identifying and sustaining the use of Balakrishnanii yam cannot be overstated. Indigenous knowledge systems, passed down orally through generations, are often the first sources of information about wild species. In this case, the Kattunayikars’ deep ecological understanding provided the foundation for scientific research.
Protecting indigenous cultures and languages is therefore directly linked to biodiversity conservation. When traditional knowledge is lost, the potential to discover and sustain valuable species like Dioscorea balakrishnanii also diminishes.
Conservation and Biodiversity Implications
The discovery of Balakrishnanii yam underscores the need to conserve the Western Ghats’ fragile ecosystems. Despite being one of the most biodiverse regions, the area faces threats from deforestation, climate change, and human encroachment. Protecting wild relatives of cultivated crops is crucial not just for ecological balance but also for ensuring future food resilience.
By highlighting the significance of this yam, researchers hope to draw attention to the broader importance of conserving wild plants. Every new discovery is a reminder that the natural world still holds secrets essential for human survival.
Looking Ahead
Balakrishnanii yam represents more than just a botanical curiosity. It is a bridge between traditional tribal wisdom and modern science, between ecological conservation and agricultural innovation. With its unique nutritional qualities and potential for cultivation, it could become a vital food source in the future.
At the same time, it stands as a symbol of the invaluable role indigenous communities play in safeguarding biodiversity. Recognizing and respecting their knowledge systems will be key to unlocking further discoveries and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
Conclusion
The emergence of Balakrishnanii yam from the shola forests of Wayanad is a story of hope, resilience, and collaboration. It tells us that in the age of modern technology, nature still has the power to surprise us with its hidden treasures. By combining traditional wisdom with scientific research, humanity can discover sustainable solutions to food security and biodiversity challenges.
As this yam finds its place in the global conversation on agriculture and health, it also calls for stronger efforts to protect the forests and communities that made its discovery possible. The Balakrishnanii yam is not just food for the body, but food for thought—a reminder of the deep connections between people, plants, and the planet.
