New species of wild brinjal discovered in the Andamans

A new species of wild brinjal, Solanum pandeyi, has been discovered in the evergreen forests of Middle Andaman by a scientist from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI). The plant, locally known as wild orange eggplant, is used by the indigenous Great Andamanese tribe for food and medicinal purposes, particularly for treating tooth infections. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed its identity, and it is recognized for its potential as a genetic resource for developing high-yielding, disease-resistant brinjal varieties. The species' conservation status is currently assessed as Data Deficient, and the Andaman group of islands is highlighted as a significant biological hotspot.