Taxonomic studies and new distribution records of three grass species from Himachal Pradesh, North-West Himalaya

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The present study enhances the agrostological and ecological understanding of Trans-Himalayan region by documenting the taxonomic identification and new distribution records of Poa eleanorae , Poa palustris , and Secale segetale from Himachal Pradesh for the first time. These documentations significantly extend the known distribution ranges of these grasses and underscore the critical role of field-based exploration in under-surveyed alpine landscapes such as the Pangi Valley. While Poa eleanorae has been successively collected across Bhutan, Nepal, Uttarakhand, and now Himachal Pradesh, Poa palustris demonstrates naturalization patterns in remote areas with minimal anthropogenic influence, suggesting ecological adaptability and dispersal through unintentional pathways. The recollection of Secale segetale , last documented 53 years ago, highlights its fragmented and restricted populations in India, calling for systematic surveys and conservation interventions. Through detailed taxonomic descriptions, habitat observations and distributional notes, this study contributes to clarifying species’ occurrences while emphasizing the broader implications of climate change, human-mediated dispersal, and habitat vulnerability in Himalayan ecosystem. The findings highlight the need for sustained botanical exploration in Himalaya, reveal notable gaps in knowledge of its grass flora, and illustrate the process by which an introduced species can become naturalized. Alpine meadows Naturalization North India Poaceae Recollection Rediscovery Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 INTRODUCTION Mountain biodiversity hotspots are ecologically critical yet highly fragile, harboring numerous threatened and endemic species [ 1 ]. The Western Himalaya, a major part of the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot, encompasses the Pangi Valley—a cold arid region marked by rugged terrain, low precipitation, harsh climatic conditions, and heavy snowfall [ 2 ]—where grasses play a vital role in sustaining ecosystem stability. Despite their importance, grass diversity in this region remains poorly explored. Recent field survey in the alpine meadows and adjoining areas of the Pangi Valley documented two perennial Poa taxa with lax panicles, together with an annual Secale taxa characterized by its fragile spike rachis, spikelets 2-floreted; glumes very narrow, subulate, 1-veined [ 3 ]. The genus Poa L., the largest grass genus, is predominantly distributed in temperate to alpine zones [ 4 ]. As the type genus of the family Poaceae [ 4 ], Poa is taxonomically complex, often requiring detailed microscopic examination of characters such as the callus, glumes, lemma, palea, anther and other diagnostic structures [ 5 ]. In contrast, Secale L., though comparatively small, is of significant agronomic value but is notoriously difficult to identify due to its limited diagnostic characters [ 6 ]. Both genera were first established by Carolus Linnaeus (1707–1778), widely regarded as the “Prince of Botanists” [ 7 ], whose taxonomic legacy remains foundational even today. In his Species Plantarum (1753), Linnaeus described Poa with 11 species, which has now expanded to 582 worldwide [ 8 ], while Secale , initially represented by four species, currently comprises nine taxa [ 8 ], among which cultivated rye ( S. cereale ) is the most significant. Both cultivated rye and its wild relatives provide essential genetic material for improving wheat, especially in enhancing its resistance to stress [ 9 ]. Today, the genus Poa is placed within tribe Poeae [ 10 ] or Festuceae [ 3 ], while Secale belongs to subtribe Hordeinae [ 9 ] of tribe Triticeae [ 3 , 10 ] both genera are placed under the subfamily Pooideae of Poaceae. During the our course of study, one of the two Poa taxa was identified as Poa eleanorae Bor, characterized by spikelets approximately 6.5 mm long, pubescent callus, lemma hairy in lower half or less, and the lowest lemma reaching 4 mm [ 3 , 4 , 11 ]. This species belongs to Poa subg. Poa [ 11 ], the largest and most diverse subgenus, comprising annual and perennial, with or without rhizomes, typically with the uppermost culm sheaths closed for more than one-quarter of their length. The second taxa was confirmed as Poa palustris L., commonly called late meadow grass, distinguished by webbed lemma callus, obscure side nerves, and brown or copper streak beneath the hyaline lemma tips. It is placed under Poa subg. Stenopoa [ 11 ], whose members usually possess extravaginal shoots, are mostly rhizomeless, and have uppermost culm sheaths closed for approximately 1/15–1/5 (–1/4) of their length. Hybridization and facultative apomixis are common within both Poa subg. Poa and Poa subg. Stenopoa [ 11 ]. The Secale taxa were identified as Secale segetale (Zhuk.) Roshev, characterized by glumes with acuminate or shortly awned apices, awns shorter than lemma and rachis of spike that is fragile or occasionally tough proximally [ 12 , 13 ]. Interestingly, a critical review of earlier studies [ 3 , 4 14 – 17 ] revealed that these three taxa represent new distributional records for the flora of Himachal Pradesh. Their documentation marks the first record of these species in the Trans-Himalayan region and underscores the ongoing range expansion of plants into the high-altitude landscapes of the Himalaya. MATERIALS AND METHODS In 2024, field surveys were carried out across various elevational ranges, from the Shivaliks to alpine meadows and the cold desert, to assess grass species diversity. As part of this extended floristic study, explorations were made in Pangi Valley [ 18 ]—a remote, high-altitude tribal region renowned for its natural beauty, situated between the Pir Panjal ranges and Zanskar ranges of North-West Himalaya [ 19 ]. Geographically, the valley lies in northwest part of Chamba district, bordered by Lahaul & Spiti in the south and east, and Jammu & Kashmir to the north. Elevations range between 1,975m and 6,400m, with the average peak height around 5,181m [ 20 ]. The valley is nourished by Chenab River and its glacial-fed tributaries, and has a semi-arid climate, with cool summers receiving little monsoon rain and harsh, prolonged winters marked by heavy snowfall [ 19 ]. Snow accumulation often blocks passes for four to five months, leaving residents isolated [ 18 ]. The species was identified by consulting the type specimen [K000789633, LINN 87.21; acronyms as per 21], the protologue [ 22 , 23 ], and relevant taxonomic studies [ 3 , 4 , 11 – 13 ]. Detailed species descriptions are provided along with colour image (Figure.1), photoplates (Figure. 2, 3, 4) not available in earlier works or the protologue. The voucher specimens (Fig. 5 ) have been deposited in herbarium of Forest Research Institute, Uttarakhand (DD herbarium). RESULTS The present investigation documents the taxonomic identification and new distributional records of three grass species from Himachal Pradesh, a region noted for its ecological diversity and remarkable floristic endemism [ 15 ]. Detailed taxonomic accounts, type details, habitat information, distributional notes, and mapping (Fig. 6 ) are provided to substantiate their occurrence. Poa eleanorae Bor, Kew Bull. 3(1): 142 (1948). (Figs. 1 . A-B, 2,5A) Type: Sikkim: Northeast Sikkim, August 1893, Dr. H. A. Cummi . [K000789631 (digital image!)]. Perennial, loosely tufted. Culms 10–50 cm × 1–2 mm, erect to ascending, sometimes geniculate at base, smooth, glabrous, 2–3 nodes. Leaf sheaths glabrous, loose, smooth. Leaf blades 5–25 cm × 1–4 mm, linear, convolute, abaxially shiny, smooth, adaxially scabrid, margins nearly smooth. Ligules upto 3 mm, truncate to obtuse, glabrous. Panicle 6–30 × 3–12 cm, lax; branches 2 per node, spreading, flexuose, scabrid distally, longest bearing 5–15 well-spaced spikelets. Spikelets 6–7 mm, cuneate, 4–5-floreted; rachis scabrid; rachilla internodes 1.5–1.7 mm, pilulose; rachilla extensions 0.8–1.1mm, pilulose. Upper glumes 3.5–4.5 mm, 3-nerved, acuminate, smooth, with hyaline margins. Lower glume 3–3.5 mm, 1-nerved, acute, smooth, with hyaline margins. Lemmas 4–6.5 mm, elliptic, acute, 5-nerved, scabrid throughout; keel shortly villous on lower third, marginal veins sometimes ciliate below. Palea upto 2.5mm, keels scabrid. Callus sparsely webbed. Lodicules 2. Anthers 0.6–1.2 mm, 3. Caryopsis not seen. Flowering & Fruiting July–October. Habitat Along moist and water-logged alpine meadows and grassy habitats, between 3000–3300 m. Distribution : INDIA: Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh (Present Study); Bhutan; Nepal. Specimen Examined India, Himachal Pradesh, Chamba Dist., Pangi Valley, enroute to Chasak Bhatori, 32°57'32"N & 76°34'57"E, 3194 m, 04.08.2024, Kuntal Saha 175093-DD. Poa palustris L., Syst. Nat., ed. 10. 2: 874. 1759. (Figs. 1 . C-D, 3,5B) Lectotype: “Habitat [in Helvetiae, Italiae paludibus.] Sp. Pl., ed. 2. 1: 99. 1762.” Lectotype: Herbarium No. 87.21 (LINN) [ 24 ]. Perennial, tufted. Culms 40–90 cm, erect or slightly geniculate at base, branched near base; nodes 5–6, dark brown; internode green, scabrid. Leaf sheaths 8–18 cm × 2–4 mm, smooth, equal to or shorter than blade; blades flat, glabrous, apex boat-shaped. Ligule 2–3 mm, membranous. Panicle 10–25 cm, slightly contracted, branches obliquely ascending, 3–7 per node, basal branch ½–⅔ as long as panicle. Spikelets 5–6.5 mm × 2–2.5 mm, ovate-oblong; rachis scabrid. Upper glumes 4–4.5 mm, 3-nerved, acute, glabrous. Lower glumes 3.5–4 mm, 1-nerved, acute, glabrous. Florets 5.5– 6 × 1.5–2 mm, with 2–5 florets, green; callus webbed; rachilla ciliate. Lemma 3–4 mm, membranous, keels and marginal veins shortly villous on lower half, apex golden-hyaline. Palea 3–3.5 mm, glabrous, membranous, keels scabrid. Anthers 1.2–2 mm, yellow; stamen 3. Caryopsis 2–3 mm, dark drown. Flowering & Fruiting June–September Habitat Along water channels, in sandy and partially moist meadows, among scattered thickets on slopes at 3100–3300 m elevation. Distribution : INDIA: Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh (Present Study); North America; Europe; Greenland; Alaska; China; Korea; Central Asia. Specimen Examined India, Himachal Pradesh, Chamba Dist., Pangi Valley, Sahli village, 32°59'28"N 76°31'53"E, 2915 m, 03.08.2024, Kuntal Saha 175092-DD. Secale segetale (Zhuk.) Roshev., Ref. Nauchno-Issl. Rabot, Otd. Biol. Nauk 1944: 5 (1945). (Figs. 4 , 5 C) Annual, tufted. Culm 20–70 cm, erect, glaucous, glabrous; node 3–4, dark brown. Leaf sheath glabrous, shinning. Leaf blades 20–35 × 0.5–0.8 cm, flat, scabrous adaxially. Ligule 1–2 mm, membranous. Inflorescence 4–13 × 1–3 cm, simple spike; rachis fragile, sometimes tough at base, margins ciliate. Spikelets 12–15 mm, solitary at each node, lanceolate, 2–3-flowered. Glumes 9–12 mm, glabrous, keels shortly scabrous-ciliate, apex acuminate or awned (up to 5 mm). Lemma 8–12 mm, long-lanceolate, glabrous, scabrous; awn 20–70 mm. Palea equal to lemma. Caryopsis obovoid, adherent to pericarp; hilum linear. Flowering & Fruiting May–August. Habitat along cereal fields, especially wheat, thriving in well-drained, fertile soils of temperate regions. Distribution : INDIA: Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh (Present Study); Afghanistan, China (Xinjiang), Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, North Caucasus, Pakistan, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan. Specimen Examined India, Himachal Pradesh, Chamba Dist., Pangi Valley, on Saichu road, near govt. school, 32°59'07"N 76°33'37"E, 2646 m, 04.08.2024, Kuntal Saha 175094-DD. DISCUSSION Biodiversity loss and species redistributions represent among the most critical ecological challenges of the present era. In fragile alpine ecosystems, such changes often occur rapidly due to a combination of natural and anthropogenic drivers, including habitat alteration, climate variability, and the introduction of non-native taxa [ 25 ]. The Himalaya, recognized as one of global biodiversity hotspot [ 1 ], supports rich floristic diversity, including several rare, endemic, and little-known grasses. Yet, the flora of many high-altitude landscapes remains underexplored, resulting in major knowledge gaps regarding species distributions and ecological dynamics. Sustained botanical exploration in such regions is essential, as it not only strengthens floristic inventories but also aids in the timely detection of naturalized alien plants that may exert ecological impacts. This study enriches the floristic knowledge of the Trans-Himalayan region by documenting Poa eleanorae, Poa palustris, and Secale segetale in Himachal Pradesh for the first time. Such records extend the known distribution ranges of the taxa and underscore the importance of field-based assessments in remote alpine valleys such as Pangi valley. Successive collections of Poa eleanorae , described by Dr. Norman Loftus Bor and named in honor of his wife, Eleanor Constance [ 23 ], was later praised by him as “a very fine species with large spikelets” [ 3 ]. After its earlier reports [ 8 , 23 ] from the eastern and central Himalaya, the present recollection from Himachal Pradesh provides new insights into its occurrence in the northwestern Himalaya and emphasizes the value of continued botanical exploration in clarifying the ranges of little-known grasses. Similarly, Poa palustris , originally described from the marshlands of Switzerland and Italy, introduced in India through Kashmir, where it was cultivated as a fodder grass [ 26 ]. It was later documented in Uttarakhand from Badrinath, en route to Mana (3100 m, 1995, Nautiyal 14927, GUH). In Himachal Pradesh, the species is now confirmed from several sites (Fig. 6 ), particularly between 2900–2950 m a.s.l., with two stable populations recorded in the Pangi Valley near Sahli village. The route of its introduction into this remote valley appears to have been unintentional, yet its establishment is noteworthy. The occurrence of P. palustris in Pangi Valley—an isolated landscape with limited tourism and absence of major highways—raises important ecological questions about dispersal pathways and mechanisms of establishment. Earlier reports [ 3 , 4 ] mention the species within the 3100–3300 m belt, mostly in meadow habitats, while our observations reveal populations thriving at slightly lower altitudes along roadside verges, where suitable microhabitats are created. This suggests considerable ecological flexibility and highlights its ability to establish in novel habitats. Such adaptability strengthens evidence for its naturalization in Himalaya habitats, where the species has formed self-sustaining populations, disperses beyond the original point of introduction, and integrates into the local flora, thereby fulfilling the widely accepted definition of naturalization (Richardson et al. , 2000). Secale segetale noted as an agricultural weed, often associated with wheat fields [ 11 ], yet it remains poorly documented in India. Earlier study [ 28 ] (specimen RAW 26701) reported its occurrence in grain fields of Gilgit, Kashmir, and another study [ 3 ] mentioned that cautioned that its admixture with wheat flour could be detrimental. An earlier study [ 12 ] also emphasized the need to monitor its spread in Kashmir’s agricultural landscapes. The present recollection represents only the second record of S. segetale from India, rediscovered after a gap of more than five decades. Extensive botanical surveys across the Himalaya, supported by herbarium consultations [BSD, DD, CAL, KASH, PLP, HBJU; acronyms following 21], indicate that its Indian populations are highly localized and fragmented. In view of earlier concerns [ 12 ], systematic field investigations are now required to clarify its precise distribution and to evaluate the potential risks it may pose to native agro-ecosystems. These findings collectively illustrate how incompletely documented the alpine flora of Himachal Pradesh remains. They also indicate that ongoing climatic shifts and human-mediated factors may be facilitating the persistence and spread of alien grasses in fragile mountain systems. The naturalization of alien taxa such as P. palustris demonstrates their ecological flexibility, while rediscoveries like that of P. eleanorae & S. segetale highlight the vulnerability of under-surveyed landscapes to overlooked or re-emerging weeds. Both scenarios pose potential long-term risks to native biodiversity. Thus, the present study not only enriches agrostological knowledge by documenting rediscovery and new recollections of overlooked grass taxa in the Trans-Himalaya, but also provides essential baseline information for understanding their ecological roles and potential risks of naturalization. By bridging taxonomy with field ecology, these findings highlight the dual importance of systematic documentation and ecological assessment in fragile alpine environments. Sustained efforts combining comprehensive surveys, herbarium-based validations, ecological monitoring, and local community engagement are imperative to clarify species distributions, detect early signs of naturalization, and mitigate potential invasive threats. At the same time, policy-level interventions promoting integrated conservation frameworks will be crucial to safeguard the floristic uniqueness of Himalaya. Linking rediscovery with long-term ecological vigilance, this approach ensures not only the advancement of grass systematics but also the preservation of biodiversity and stability of high-altitude Himalayan landscapes for future generations. Declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate The collection of plant material for this study was conducted in accordance with applicable local and national regulations, and no additional formal authorization was required. All the wild grass specimens were collected following prior official correspondence or verbal approval from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and the concerned wildlife authorities of the respective forest divisions in Pangi Valley, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh. No specific permit or license number was issued, as the work complied with regulatory guidelines and did not involve any threatened or legally protected species. Relevant details of the forest divisions and wildlife sanctuaries are documented on the herbarium labels of specimens deposited in the DD Herbarium. Plant guidelines The collection of plant materials was carried out in accordance with all applicable institutional, national, and international guidelines and legislation. Consent to publication Not applicable. Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest Plant reproducibility All three grass species were collected from different localities within Pangi Valley, Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh. The specimens were identified by the authors (M. Chandran and K. Saha), and voucher specimens have been deposited in the Forest Research Institute Herbarium (herbarium code: DD). Funding No such funding involved. Author Contribution All authors contributed equally. Acknowledgement The authors extend their sincere thanks to the herbaria CAL, DD, LINN and K for providing digital access to their herbarium specimens. Mr. Kuntal Saha (First author) gratefully acknowledges the financial assistance provided through scholarship (UGC Ref No-211610009488/Joint CSIR-UGC NET June 2021) from University Grants Commission, New Delhi, India. The author also expresses appreciation to Poushali Dey, CSIR fellow at CSIR–National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Uttar Pradesh for her valuable assistance during the field survey in Pangi Valley, Himachal Pradesh. Availability of data and materials All data generated or analysed during this study are included in this published article files. References Saha K, Chandran M, Negi R, Guleri S. Challenges and opportunities in conserving grassland ecosystems of Western Himalayan region. PhytoTalks. 2024;1(2):131–42. https://doi.org/10.21276/pt.2024.1.2.7 . 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Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. 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Habitat near dry roadsides; B. Close-up of inflorescences; C. Habit near the water channel; D. Close-up of inflorescences.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture1.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8940477/v1/e5f7edd001cb5578c7fca892.jpg"},{"id":105509589,"identity":"be7f6b84-feaf-4e9f-a1cf-a20d5da1e96a","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-26 20:16:29","extension":"jpg","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":287613,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eDissection plate of \u003cem\u003ePoa eleanorae\u003c/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c/strong\u003eBor. (A-T): A.\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c/strong\u003eHabit; B. Portion of internode; C. Inflorescence; D. Scabrid tips of leaf blade; E. Glabrous upper surface of leaf blades; F. Node; G. Spikelets; H. Ligule; I. Floret; J. Rachilla extension; K. Upper glume (lateral \u0026amp; dorsal view); L. Scabrid rachis; M. Pubescent callus; N. Arrangement of florets in rachilla internodes; O. Lemma (dorsal \u0026amp; lateral view); P. Lemma margins ciliate in the lower half; Q. Lower glume (lateral \u0026amp; dorsal view); R. Palea; S. Anthers; T. Pistil.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture2.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8940477/v1/2487a2ac6b21776de1a6b4f2.jpg"},{"id":105566933,"identity":"0149ffda-5f5c-416e-a53a-5ce2b8419d8b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-27 12:57:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":260565,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eDissection plate of \u003cem\u003ePoa palustris\u003c/em\u003e L. (A-Q): A.\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c/strong\u003eHabit; B. Node; C. Inflorescence; D. Spikelet; E. Upper surface of leaf blade; F. Upper glume (lateral \u0026amp; dorsal view); G. Pubescent rachilla extension; H. Floret; I. Scabrid rachis; J. Portion of internode (scabrid); K. Lower glume (lateral \u0026amp; dorsal view); L. Lemma (lateral \u0026amp; dorsal view); M. Close-up of callus; N. Pistil; O. Ciliate keel of lemma; P. Palea; Q. Caryopsis.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture3.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8940477/v1/beeee0fc8c312cd9ff2e780d.jpg"},{"id":105509592,"identity":"0afbb481-f8d6-49bd-9718-fd264754189d","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-26 20:16:29","extension":"jpg","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":74882,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eDissection plate of \u003cem\u003eSecale segetale \u003c/em\u003e(Zhuk.) Roshev. (A-G): A.\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c/strong\u003eHabit; B. Portion of internode; C. Spikelets; D. Ligule; E. Node; F. Spikelet Split open of spikelets; G. Inflorescence.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture4.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8940477/v1/a53e86a2a30f96a2b375bacd.jpg"},{"id":105509593,"identity":"7f2490fe-dada-4694-ae82-01e9ff0c32ba","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-26 20:16:29","extension":"jpg","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":199817,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eHerbarium specimens (DD herbarium) of A.\u003cem\u003e Poa eleanorae\u003c/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c/strong\u003eBor; B. \u003cem\u003ePoa palustris\u003c/em\u003e; C. \u003cem\u003eSecale segetale\u003c/em\u003e (Zhuk.) Roshev.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture5.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8940477/v1/b1356972197a5d2f0132971a.jpg"},{"id":105509591,"identity":"96d14fd1-3d51-4742-8c41-3871efcf6220","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-26 20:16:29","extension":"jpg","order_by":6,"title":"Figure 6","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":197298,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eMap illustrating the newly recorded distribution of three grass species.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture6.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8940477/v1/e97a87457756deeff2db55ea.jpg"},{"id":105570167,"identity":"e178e8d0-9a5c-403a-876f-93c1615dda33","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-27 13:15:03","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1995815,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8940477/v1/cf1172f6-4a76-41ef-811f-0c5f39875998.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Taxonomic studies and new distribution records of three grass species from Himachal Pradesh, North-West Himalaya","fulltext":[{"header":"INTRODUCTION","content":"\u003cp\u003eMountain biodiversity hotspots are ecologically critical yet highly fragile, harboring numerous threatened and endemic species [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e]. The Western Himalaya, a major part of the Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot, encompasses the Pangi Valley\u0026mdash;a cold arid region marked by rugged terrain, low precipitation, harsh climatic conditions, and heavy snowfall [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e]\u0026mdash;where grasses play a vital role in sustaining ecosystem stability. Despite their importance, grass diversity in this region remains poorly explored. Recent field survey in the alpine meadows and adjoining areas of the Pangi Valley documented two perennial \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e taxa with lax panicles, together with an annual \u003cem\u003eSecale\u003c/em\u003e taxa characterized by its fragile spike rachis, spikelets 2-floreted; glumes very narrow, subulate, 1-veined [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe genus \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e L., the largest grass genus, is predominantly distributed in temperate to alpine zones [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e]. As the type genus of the family Poaceae [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e], \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e is taxonomically complex, often requiring detailed microscopic examination of characters such as the callus, glumes, lemma, palea, anther and other diagnostic structures [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]. In contrast, \u003cem\u003eSecale\u003c/em\u003e L., though comparatively small, is of significant agronomic value but is notoriously difficult to identify due to its limited diagnostic characters [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBoth genera were first established by Carolus Linnaeus (1707\u0026ndash;1778), widely regarded as the \u0026ldquo;Prince of Botanists\u0026rdquo; [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e], whose taxonomic legacy remains foundational even today. In his \u003cem\u003eSpecies Plantarum\u003c/em\u003e (1753), Linnaeus described \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e with 11 species, which has now expanded to 582 worldwide [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e], while \u003cem\u003eSecale\u003c/em\u003e, initially represented by four species, currently comprises nine taxa [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e], among which cultivated rye (\u003cem\u003eS. cereale\u003c/em\u003e) is the most significant. Both cultivated rye and its wild relatives provide essential genetic material for improving wheat, especially in enhancing its resistance to stress [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e]. Today, the genus \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e is placed within tribe Poeae [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e] or Festuceae [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e], while \u003cem\u003eSecale\u003c/em\u003e belongs to subtribe Hordeinae [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e] of tribe Triticeae [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e] both genera are placed under the subfamily Pooideae of Poaceae.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDuring the our course of study, one of the two \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e taxa was identified as \u003cem\u003ePoa eleanorae\u003c/em\u003e Bor, characterized by spikelets approximately 6.5 mm long, pubescent callus, lemma hairy in lower half or less, and the lowest lemma reaching 4 mm [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. This species belongs to \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e subg. \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e], the largest and most diverse subgenus, comprising annual and perennial, with or without rhizomes, typically with the uppermost culm sheaths closed for more than one-quarter of their length. The second taxa was confirmed as \u003cem\u003ePoa palustris\u003c/em\u003e L., commonly called late meadow grass, distinguished by webbed lemma callus, obscure side nerves, and brown or copper streak beneath the hyaline lemma tips. It is placed under \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e subg. \u003cem\u003eStenopoa\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e], whose members usually possess extravaginal shoots, are mostly rhizomeless, and have uppermost culm sheaths closed for approximately 1/15\u0026ndash;1/5 (\u0026ndash;1/4) of their length. Hybridization and facultative apomixis are common within both \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e subg. \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003ePoa\u003c/em\u003e subg. \u003cem\u003eStenopoa\u003c/em\u003e [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. The \u003cem\u003eSecale\u003c/em\u003e taxa were identified as \u003cem\u003eSecale segetale\u003c/em\u003e (Zhuk.) Roshev, characterized by glumes with acuminate or shortly awned apices, awns shorter than lemma and rachis of spike that is fragile or occasionally tough proximally [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterestingly, a critical review of earlier studies [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e \u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR15 CR16\" citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e] revealed that these three taxa represent new distributional records for the flora of Himachal Pradesh. Their documentation marks the first record of these species in the Trans-Himalayan region and underscores the ongoing range expansion of plants into the high-altitude landscapes of the Himalaya.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"MATERIALS AND METHODS","content":"\u003cp\u003eIn 2024, field surveys were carried out across various elevational ranges, from the Shivaliks to alpine meadows and the cold desert, to assess grass species diversity. As part of this extended floristic study, explorations were made in Pangi Valley [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e]\u0026mdash;a remote, high-altitude tribal region renowned for its natural beauty, situated between the Pir Panjal ranges and Zanskar ranges of North-West Himalaya [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e]. Geographically, the valley lies in northwest part of Chamba district, bordered by Lahaul \u0026amp; Spiti in the south and east, and Jammu \u0026amp; Kashmir to the north. Elevations range between 1,975m and 6,400m, with the average peak height around 5,181m [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e]. The valley is nourished by Chenab River and its glacial-fed tributaries, and has a semi-arid climate, with cool summers receiving little monsoon rain and harsh, prolonged winters marked by heavy snowfall [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e]. Snow accumulation often blocks passes for four to five months, leaving residents isolated [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e]. The species was identified by consulting the type specimen [K000789633, LINN 87.21; acronyms as per 21], the protologue [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e], and relevant taxonomic studies [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR12\" citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. Detailed species descriptions are provided along with colour image (Figure.1), photoplates (Figure. 2, 3, 4) not available in earlier works or the protologue. The voucher specimens (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e) have been deposited in herbarium of Forest Research Institute, Uttarakhand (DD herbarium).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"RESULTS","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe present investigation documents the taxonomic identification and new distributional records of three grass species from Himachal Pradesh, a region noted for its ecological diversity and remarkable floristic endemism [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]. Detailed taxonomic accounts, type details, habitat information, distributional notes, and mapping (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e) are provided to substantiate their occurrence.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003ePoa eleanorae\u003c/b\u003e Bor, Kew Bull. 3(1): 142 (1948). (Figs.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e. A-B, 2,5A)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eType: Sikkim: Northeast Sikkim, August 1893, \u003cem\u003eDr. H. A. Cummi\u003c/em\u003e. [K000789631 (digital image!)].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerennial, loosely tufted. Culms 10\u0026ndash;50 cm \u0026times; 1\u0026ndash;2 mm, erect to ascending, sometimes geniculate at base, smooth, glabrous, 2\u0026ndash;3 nodes. Leaf sheaths glabrous, loose, smooth. Leaf blades 5\u0026ndash;25 cm \u0026times; 1\u0026ndash;4 mm, linear, convolute, abaxially shiny, smooth, adaxially scabrid, margins nearly smooth. Ligules upto 3 mm, truncate to obtuse, glabrous. Panicle 6\u0026ndash;30 \u0026times; 3\u0026ndash;12 cm, lax; branches 2 per node, spreading, flexuose, scabrid distally, longest bearing 5\u0026ndash;15 well-spaced spikelets. Spikelets 6\u0026ndash;7 mm, cuneate, 4\u0026ndash;5-floreted; rachis scabrid; rachilla internodes 1.5\u0026ndash;1.7 mm, pilulose; rachilla extensions 0.8\u0026ndash;1.1mm, pilulose. Upper glumes 3.5\u0026ndash;4.5 mm, 3-nerved, acuminate, smooth, with hyaline margins. Lower glume 3\u0026ndash;3.5 mm, 1-nerved, acute, smooth, with hyaline margins. Lemmas 4\u0026ndash;6.5 mm, elliptic, acute, 5-nerved, scabrid throughout; keel shortly villous on lower third, marginal veins sometimes ciliate below. Palea upto 2.5mm, keels scabrid. Callus sparsely webbed. Lodicules 2. Anthers 0.6\u0026ndash;1.2 mm, 3. Caryopsis not seen.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eFlowering \u0026amp; Fruiting\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eJuly\u0026ndash;October.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHabitat\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlong moist and water-logged alpine meadows and grassy habitats, between 3000\u0026ndash;3300 m.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eDistribution\u003c/b\u003e: INDIA: Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh (Present Study); Bhutan; Nepal.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSpecimen Examined\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndia, Himachal Pradesh, Chamba Dist., Pangi Valley, enroute to Chasak Bhatori, 32\u0026deg;57'32\"N \u0026amp; 76\u0026deg;34'57\"E, 3194 m, 04.08.2024, \u003cem\u003eKuntal Saha\u003c/em\u003e 175093-DD.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003ePoa palustris\u003c/b\u003e L., Syst. Nat., ed. 10. 2: 874. 1759. (Figs.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e. C-D, 3,5B)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLectotype: \u0026ldquo;Habitat [in Helvetiae, Italiae paludibus.] Sp. Pl., ed. 2. 1: 99. 1762.\u0026rdquo; Lectotype: Herbarium No. 87.21 (LINN) [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerennial, tufted. Culms 40\u0026ndash;90 cm, erect or slightly geniculate at base, branched near base; nodes 5\u0026ndash;6, dark brown; internode green, scabrid. Leaf sheaths 8\u0026ndash;18 cm \u0026times; 2\u0026ndash;4 mm, smooth, equal to or shorter than blade; blades flat, glabrous, apex boat-shaped. Ligule 2\u0026ndash;3 mm, membranous. Panicle 10\u0026ndash;25 cm, slightly contracted, branches obliquely ascending, 3\u0026ndash;7 per node, basal branch \u0026frac12;\u0026ndash;⅔ as long as panicle. Spikelets 5\u0026ndash;6.5 mm \u0026times; 2\u0026ndash;2.5 mm, ovate-oblong; rachis scabrid. Upper glumes 4\u0026ndash;4.5 mm, 3-nerved, acute, glabrous. Lower glumes 3.5\u0026ndash;4 mm, 1-nerved, acute, glabrous. Florets 5.5\u0026ndash; 6 \u0026times; 1.5\u0026ndash;2 mm, with 2\u0026ndash;5 florets, green; callus webbed; rachilla ciliate. Lemma 3\u0026ndash;4 mm, membranous, keels and marginal veins shortly villous on lower half, apex golden-hyaline. Palea 3\u0026ndash;3.5 mm, glabrous, membranous, keels scabrid. Anthers 1.2\u0026ndash;2 mm, yellow; stamen 3. Caryopsis 2\u0026ndash;3 mm, dark drown.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eFlowering \u0026amp; Fruiting\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eJune\u0026ndash;September\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHabitat\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlong water channels, in sandy and partially moist meadows, among scattered thickets on slopes at 3100\u0026ndash;3300 m elevation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eDistribution\u003c/b\u003e: INDIA: Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh (Present Study); North America; Europe; Greenland; Alaska; China; Korea; Central Asia.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSpecimen Examined\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndia, Himachal Pradesh, Chamba Dist., Pangi Valley, Sahli village, 32\u0026deg;59'28\"N 76\u0026deg;31'53\"E, 2915 m, 03.08.2024, \u003cem\u003eKuntal Saha\u003c/em\u003e 175092-DD.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eSecale segetale\u003c/b\u003e (Zhuk.) Roshev., Ref. Nauchno-Issl. Rabot, Otd. Biol. Nauk 1944: 5 (1945).\u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e(Figs.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e,\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003eC)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAnnual, tufted. Culm 20\u0026ndash;70 cm, erect, glaucous, glabrous; node 3\u0026ndash;4, dark brown. Leaf sheath glabrous, shinning. Leaf blades 20\u0026ndash;35 \u0026times; 0.5\u0026ndash;0.8 cm, flat, scabrous adaxially. Ligule 1\u0026ndash;2 mm, membranous. Inflorescence 4\u0026ndash;13 \u0026times; 1\u0026ndash;3 cm, simple spike; rachis fragile, sometimes tough at base, margins ciliate. Spikelets 12\u0026ndash;15 mm, solitary at each node, lanceolate, 2\u0026ndash;3-flowered. Glumes 9\u0026ndash;12 mm, glabrous, keels shortly scabrous-ciliate, apex acuminate or awned (up to 5 mm). Lemma 8\u0026ndash;12 mm, long-lanceolate, glabrous, scabrous; awn 20\u0026ndash;70 mm. Palea equal to lemma. Caryopsis obovoid, adherent to pericarp; hilum linear.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eFlowering \u0026amp; Fruiting\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eMay\u0026ndash;August.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHabitat\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003ealong cereal fields, especially wheat, thriving in well-drained, fertile soils of temperate regions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eDistribution\u003c/b\u003e: INDIA: Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh (Present Study); Afghanistan, China (Xinjiang), Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, North Caucasus, Pakistan, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSpecimen Examined\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndia, Himachal Pradesh, Chamba Dist., Pangi Valley, on Saichu road, near govt. school, 32\u0026deg;59'07\"N 76\u0026deg;33'37\"E, 2646 m, 04.08.2024, \u003cem\u003eKuntal Saha\u003c/em\u003e 175094-DD.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"DISCUSSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eBiodiversity loss and species redistributions represent among the most critical ecological challenges of the present era. In fragile alpine ecosystems, such changes often occur rapidly due to a combination of natural and anthropogenic drivers, including habitat alteration, climate variability, and the introduction of non-native taxa [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e]. The Himalaya, recognized as one of global biodiversity hotspot [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e], supports rich floristic diversity, including several rare, endemic, and little-known grasses. Yet, the flora of many high-altitude landscapes remains underexplored, resulting in major knowledge gaps regarding species distributions and ecological dynamics. Sustained botanical exploration in such regions is essential, as it not only strengthens floristic inventories but also aids in the timely detection of naturalized alien plants that may exert ecological impacts.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study enriches the floristic knowledge of the Trans-Himalayan region by documenting \u003cem\u003ePoa eleanorae, Poa palustris, and Secale segetale\u003c/em\u003e in Himachal Pradesh for the first time. Such records extend the known distribution ranges of the taxa and underscore the importance of field-based assessments in remote alpine valleys such as Pangi valley. Successive collections of \u003cem\u003ePoa eleanorae\u003c/em\u003e, described by Dr. Norman Loftus Bor and named in honor of his wife, Eleanor Constance [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e], was later praised by him as \u0026ldquo;a very fine species with large spikelets\u0026rdquo; [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e]. After its earlier reports [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e] from the eastern and central Himalaya, the present recollection from Himachal Pradesh provides new insights into its occurrence in the northwestern Himalaya and emphasizes the value of continued botanical exploration in clarifying the ranges of little-known grasses. Similarly, \u003cem\u003ePoa palustris\u003c/em\u003e, originally described from the marshlands of Switzerland and Italy, introduced in India through Kashmir, where it was cultivated as a fodder grass [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e]. It was later documented in Uttarakhand from Badrinath, en route to Mana (3100 m, 1995, Nautiyal 14927, GUH). In Himachal Pradesh, the species is now confirmed from several sites (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e), particularly between 2900\u0026ndash;2950 m a.s.l., with two stable populations recorded in the Pangi Valley near Sahli village. The route of its introduction into this remote valley appears to have been unintentional, yet its establishment is noteworthy. The occurrence of \u003cem\u003eP. palustris\u003c/em\u003e in Pangi Valley\u0026mdash;an isolated landscape with limited tourism and absence of major highways\u0026mdash;raises important ecological questions about dispersal pathways and mechanisms of establishment. Earlier reports [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e] mention the species within the 3100\u0026ndash;3300 m belt, mostly in meadow habitats, while our observations reveal populations thriving at slightly lower altitudes along roadside verges, where suitable microhabitats are created. This suggests considerable ecological flexibility and highlights its ability to establish in novel habitats. Such adaptability strengthens evidence for its naturalization in Himalaya habitats, where the species has formed self-sustaining populations, disperses beyond the original point of introduction, and integrates into the local flora, thereby fulfilling the widely accepted definition of naturalization (Richardson \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e, 2000).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cem\u003eSecale segetale\u003c/em\u003e noted as an agricultural weed, often associated with wheat fields [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e], yet it remains poorly documented in India. Earlier study [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e] (specimen RAW 26701) reported its occurrence in grain fields of Gilgit, Kashmir, and another study [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e] mentioned that cautioned that its admixture with wheat flour could be detrimental. An earlier study [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e] also emphasized the need to monitor its spread in Kashmir\u0026rsquo;s agricultural landscapes. The present recollection represents only the second record of \u003cem\u003eS. segetale\u003c/em\u003e from India, rediscovered after a gap of more than five decades. Extensive botanical surveys across the Himalaya, supported by herbarium consultations [BSD, DD, CAL, KASH, PLP, HBJU; acronyms following 21], indicate that its Indian populations are highly localized and fragmented. In view of earlier concerns [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e], systematic field investigations are now required to clarify its precise distribution and to evaluate the potential risks it may pose to native agro-ecosystems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThese findings collectively illustrate how incompletely documented the alpine flora of Himachal Pradesh remains. They also indicate that ongoing climatic shifts and human-mediated factors may be facilitating the persistence and spread of alien grasses in fragile mountain systems. The naturalization of alien taxa such as \u003cem\u003eP. palustris\u003c/em\u003e demonstrates their ecological flexibility, while rediscoveries like that of \u003cem\u003eP. eleanorae\u003c/em\u003e \u0026amp; \u003cem\u003eS. segetale\u003c/em\u003e highlight the vulnerability of under-surveyed landscapes to overlooked or re-emerging weeds. Both scenarios pose potential long-term risks to native biodiversity.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThus, the present study not only enriches agrostological knowledge by documenting rediscovery and new recollections of overlooked grass taxa in the Trans-Himalaya, but also provides essential baseline information for understanding their ecological roles and potential risks of naturalization. By bridging taxonomy with field ecology, these findings highlight the dual importance of systematic documentation and ecological assessment in fragile alpine environments. Sustained efforts combining comprehensive surveys, herbarium-based validations, ecological monitoring, and local community engagement are imperative to clarify species distributions, detect early signs of naturalization, and mitigate potential invasive threats. At the same time, policy-level interventions promoting integrated conservation frameworks will be crucial to safeguard the floristic uniqueness of Himalaya. Linking rediscovery with long-term ecological vigilance, this approach ensures not only the advancement of grass systematics but also the preservation of biodiversity and stability of high-altitude Himalayan landscapes for future generations.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":" \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003e The collection of plant material for this study was conducted in accordance with applicable local and national regulations, and no additional formal authorization was required. All the wild grass specimens were collected following prior official correspondence or verbal approval from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and the concerned wildlife authorities of the respective forest divisions in Pangi Valley, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh. No specific permit or license number was issued, as the work complied with regulatory guidelines and did not involve any threatened or legally protected species. Relevant details of the forest divisions and wildlife sanctuaries are documented on the herbarium labels of specimens deposited in the DD Herbarium.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003ch2\u003ePlant guidelines\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e The collection of plant materials was carried out in accordance with all applicable institutional, national, and international guidelines and legislation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003ch2\u003eConsent to publication\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDeclaration of Competing Interest\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe authors declare that they have no conflict of interest\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003ch2\u003ePlant reproducibility\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll three grass species were collected from different localities within Pangi Valley, Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh. The specimens were identified by the authors (M. Chandran and K. Saha), and voucher specimens have been deposited in the Forest Research Institute Herbarium (herbarium code: DD).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFunding\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo such funding involved.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll authors contributed equally.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAcknowledgement\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe authors extend their sincere thanks to the herbaria CAL, DD, LINN and K for providing digital access to their herbarium specimens. Mr. Kuntal Saha (First author) gratefully acknowledges the financial assistance provided through scholarship (UGC Ref No-211610009488/Joint CSIR-UGC NET June 2021) from University Grants Commission, New Delhi, India. The author also expresses appreciation to Poushali Dey, CSIR fellow at CSIR\u0026ndash;National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Uttar Pradesh for her valuable assistance during the field survey in Pangi Valley, Himachal Pradesh.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAvailability of data and materials\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll data generated or analysed during this study are included in this published article files.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSaha K, Chandran M, Negi R, Guleri S. Challenges and opportunities in conserving grassland ecosystems of Western Himalayan region. 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Biodivers Conserv. 2024:1\u0026ndash;20.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKarthikeyan S, Jain SK, Nayar MP, Sanjappa M. Florae Indicae enumeratio: Monocotyledonae. Calcutta: Botanical Survey of India; 1989. pp. 1\u0026ndash;435.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRichardson DM, Pyšek P, Rejmanek M, Barbour MG, Panetta FD, West CJ. Naturalization and invasion of alien plants: concepts and definitions. Divers Distrib. 2000;6(2):93\u0026ndash;107. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1046/j.1472-4642.2000.00083.x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1046/j.1472-4642.2000.00083.x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStewart RR. An annotated catalogue of the vascular plants of West Pakistan and Kashmir. In: Nasir E, Ali SI, editors. Flora of West Pakistan. Karachi: Department of Botany, University of Karachi; 1972.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-plants","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Plants](https://link.springer.com/journal/44372)","snPcode":"44372","submissionUrl":"https://submission.springernature.com/new-submission/44372/3","title":"Discover Plants","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Alpine meadows, Naturalization, North India, Poaceae, Recollection, Rediscovery","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8940477/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8940477/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eComprehensive documentation of regional floristic diversity is essential for advancing botanical knowledge. The present study enhances the agrostological and ecological understanding of Trans-Himalayan region by documenting the taxonomic identification and new distribution records of \u003cem\u003ePoa eleanorae\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003ePoa palustris\u003c/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eSecale segetale\u003c/em\u003e from Himachal Pradesh for the first time. These documentations significantly extend the known distribution ranges of these grasses and underscore the critical role of field-based exploration in under-surveyed alpine landscapes such as the Pangi Valley. While \u003cem\u003ePoa eleanorae\u003c/em\u003e has been successively collected across Bhutan, Nepal, Uttarakhand, and now Himachal Pradesh, \u003cem\u003ePoa palustris\u003c/em\u003e demonstrates naturalization patterns in remote areas with minimal anthropogenic influence, suggesting ecological adaptability and dispersal through unintentional pathways. The recollection of \u003cem\u003eSecale segetale\u003c/em\u003e, last documented 53 years ago, highlights its fragmented and restricted populations in India, calling for systematic surveys and conservation interventions. Through detailed taxonomic descriptions, habitat observations and distributional notes, this study contributes to clarifying species\u0026rsquo; occurrences while emphasizing the broader implications of climate change, human-mediated dispersal, and habitat vulnerability in Himalayan ecosystem. The findings highlight the need for sustained botanical exploration in Himalaya, reveal notable gaps in knowledge of its grass flora, and illustrate the process by which an introduced species can become naturalized.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Taxonomic studies and new distribution records of three grass species from Himachal Pradesh, North-West Himalaya","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-03-26 20:16:24","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8940477/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"82539083474684241186827633116726206978","date":"2026-05-19T03:36:56+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"147071848439077939809224362006438697819","date":"2026-05-18T06:18:25+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"80712732754737324230194882805851282530","date":"2026-05-16T02:48:17+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-04-28T11:59:41+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-04-27T19:01:59+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"21000295921007078543032942507771537467","date":"2026-04-22T17:35:55+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"163669621044989983904708813974826261768","date":"2026-04-19T10:35:59+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"98085920308299866812717119398514446321","date":"2026-04-19T07:19:56+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"263614528593676524708291075286466651115","date":"2026-04-18T15:44:00+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"336364386238559896858079029711090524875","date":"2026-04-02T08:18:47+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"95718951541032824632861390530355697186","date":"2026-03-28T08:56:31+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"149461478741811937563593098147075254303","date":"2026-03-27T07:58:25+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2026-03-25T04:52:47+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2026-03-05T11:08:12+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2026-03-02T10:44:16+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2026-03-02T10:38:55+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Discover Plants","date":"2026-03-02T07:42:38+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-plants","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Plants](https://link.springer.com/journal/44372)","snPcode":"44372","submissionUrl":"https://submission.springernature.com/new-submission/44372/3","title":"Discover Plants","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"242af9ed-f8a4-4290-9183-5979b9f52455","owner":[],"postedDate":"March 26th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"82539083474684241186827633116726206978","date":"2026-05-19T03:36:56+00:00","index":83,"fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"147071848439077939809224362006438697819","date":"2026-05-18T06:18:25+00:00","index":82,"fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"80712732754737324230194882805851282530","date":"2026-05-16T02:48:17+00:00","index":81,"fulltext":""}],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-03-26T20:16:25+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-03-26 20:16:24","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8940477","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8940477","identity":"rs-8940477","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}