Physalis peruviana (Cape Gooseberry) - Sikkim Flora

The Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana), known as "Rasbari" in Sikkim, is a bushy plant growing 1 to 3 feet tall, with velvety leaves and yellowish flowers. The small, round fruit, encased in a papery husk, offers a sweet-tart flavour and is rich in vitamins A, C, and antioxidants. 

Native to South America, particularly Peru and Chile, Cape Gooseberry has now spread to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It thrives in well-drained soils and sunny climates and is often cultivated in home gardens or small farms for fresh consumption and commercial purposes.

Xystrocera dispar (mango stem borer) - Sikkim Beetle

Xystrocera dispar, also known as the mango stem borer or "aamko botkira" in Nepali, is an insect that affects mango trees. The adult beetle is about 20-30 mm long with a shiny, metallic body. The larvae bore into the stems and branches of mango trees, causing significant damage.

This boring disrupts the flow of nutrients and water, leading to weakened or dead branches. Infested trees often show signs like wilting leaves and dieback. Managing this pest involves regular monitoring and removing infected parts of the tree to prevent the spread of the larvae.

Batocera rufomaculata (Fig borer) - Sikkim Beetle

Batocera rufomaculata, commonly known as Fig borer, tropical fig borer, mango stem borer, a long-horn beetle originating from Asia, was described by Charles De Geer in 1775. It infests various trees including Ficus carica, Carica papaya, Mangifera indica, and Shorea robusta, posing a threat to fruit tree cultivation, particularly mangoes, by causing yield loss and tree death.

Human activities have spread globally, affecting regions like Israel, Madagascar, and the Virgin Islands. Control efforts face challenges due to its broad host range and susceptibility to parasitic infection by Avetianella batocerae. Effective management strategies focus on monitoring, quarantine, and biological controls to mitigate its impact on agriculture and forestry.

Oligodon albocinctus (ight Barred Kukri Snake) - Sikkim Snake

Oligodon albocinctus, the light-barred kukri snake, is a colubrid snake endemic to Asia. First described by Theodore Cantor in 1839, it is recognized for its white crossbands on a darker body, providing effective camouflage. This nocturnal and secretive snake inhabits forested and hilly regions across South Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar.

It feeds on eggs, small rodents, and other small vertebrates, using its kukri knife-shaped teeth for cutting open eggs. The species is oviparous, laying eggs from which the young hatch.