Flora of Sikkim. A Comprehensive Account of Angiosperms with Identification Keys. Volume 1: Dicotyledons (Acanthaceae - Molluginaceae). 2024.24 col. pls. XXIV, 600 p. gr8vo. Hardcover.

The book is an invaluable treasure trove documenting the plant diversity of Sikkim, a biodiversity hotspot state in the Indian Himalaya. It includes the taxonomic information on flowering plants of this Himalayan region, based on all the available scientific literature, monographs, revisions, and research articles, supplemented by plant exploration studies conducted by the authors over the last two decades in the region. This book is organised into three volumes, with the first two volumes focusing on the Dicotyledons, while the third volume covers the Monocotyledons of the state. This endeavour is perhaps the first-ever research effort to provide the identification keys for the genera under each family as well as for the species and infraspecific taxa found in Sikkim. This book documents a total of 5937 species and 303 infraspecific taxa, thereby highlighting the rich plant diversity of this Indian Himalayan state. Besides, the book also provides information on the 94 endemic plants, which is crucial for their conservation. The book will be a valuable knowledge resource for researchers, professionals, policymakers, foresters, naturalists, and the general public interested in plants and the natural environment, both in India and abroad.