Phyllanthus sikkimensis

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Reidia hamiltoniana
• Diasperus sikkimensis
• Eriococcus hamiltonianus
• Agyneia tetrandra
• Nymphanthus tetrandrus
• Phyllanthus secundiflora
• Phyllanthus perlisensis

Sources: Wikidata

Taxonomical Classification

This plant, known scientifically as Phyllanthus sikkimensis, belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae, it is categorized under the order Malpighiales and the family Phyllanthaceae. Finally, it is classified under the genus Phyllanthus.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a diverse distribution across several key regions within the Indian Subcontinent. It can be found growing in the lush landscapes of Assam and throughout various parts of Bangladesh. Additionally, the species is well-established in the rugged terrains of the East Himalaya and the mountainous country of Nepal. Beyond the Indian Subcontinent, its range extends into the Indo-China region, specifically within Myanmar. Consequently, its geographical presence spans multiple ecological zones across South and Southeast Asia.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Phyllanthus sikkimensis is characterized by its specific distribution within altitudinal gradients, typically thriving in environments ranging from a minimum elevation of 100 m AMSL to a maximum elevation of 900 m AMSL. Within this elevational belt, the species adapts to the varying climatic and topographical conditions inherent to these low-to-mid altitude zones. Its presence is closely tied to the specific moisture levels and soil compositions found within this 800-meter vertical range, allowing it to occupy particular ecological niches that support its growth and medicinal potency.

Elevational range max:

900 m AMSL

Elevational range min:

100 m AMSL

Life history

The life history of Phyllanthus sikkimensis is characterized by its specific growth strategies and structural adaptations, functioning primarily as a phanerophyte. This classification indicates that its perennating buds are located well above the ground, allowing the plant to maintain its structural integrity and survive seasonal environmental shifts. In certain ecological contexts or stages of development, its life form may also exhibit characteristics consistent with a nanophanerophyte, reflecting a compact growth habit where the woody parts remain relatively low but above the soil surface. This dual potential in its life form strategy enables the species to navigate the varying light and moisture availability within its native habitats, ensuring long-term survival through its perennial nature.

Life form :

nanophanerophyte

Life form :

phanerophyte

Morphology

The morphology of Phyllanthus sikkimensis is characterized by a woody growth form, specifically manifesting as a shrub. It functions as an independent organism, meaning it does not exhibit parasitic behavior, and it maintains a terrestrial existence rather than being an epiphyte. In terms of its structural support, the plant acts as a self-supporting climber, possessing the necessary rigidity to maintain its posture without requiring external hosts for stability.

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

shrub

Parasite :

independent

Woodiness :

woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Activities

Phyllanthus sikkimensis has 3 reported activities identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Antithrombotic, Cytotoxic, Thrombolytic.

Antithrombotic

1. Journal of basic and clinical physiology and pharmacology

Cytotoxic

1. Journal of basic and clinical physiology and pharmacology

Thrombolytic

1. Journal of basic and clinical physiology and pharmacology