'World's largest seed' becomes center of attraction at Kumbh Mela
What's the story
An exhibition by the Ministry of Environment, which among other things displays a double coconut palm seed weighing a whopping 30 kg, is attracting eyeballs at the Kumbh Mela, the largest congregation in the world. A Botanical Survey of India (BSI) scientist has claimed that the seed is the world's largest. The double coconut palm tree takes a decade to flower. Here's more.
Details
Tree on the Red Data list for species under threat
Dr. Shiv Kumar of the BSI said that the seed belonged to a tree planted at the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden near Kolkata in 1894. The tree had flowered after 112 years. The tree, which is now grown only in two African islands, is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's global Red Data list for species under threat.
Tiniest seed
Exhibition displays orchid seed only visible through a microscope
The double coconut palm tree has a lifespan of 1,000 years and takes a decade to flower. An orchid seed, measuring 799 microns, is also on display at the exhibition. The seed is so tiny that one cannot see it without using a microscope. The picture of a giant banyan tree, touted as the world's largest, is also attracting visitors at the famed Mela.
Information
Ministry's exhibition aims to create awareness about forest resources
The Ministry's exhibition aims at creating awareness about forest resources in the country. The Kumbh Mela commenced on January 15 on Makar Sankranti and will mark its culmination on Mahashivratri on March 4.