Extended distribution of Dischidia acutifolia Maingay ex Hook.f. from West Bengal, India along with a report on naturalization of two Dischidia species in wild

This study reports the occurrence of Dischidia acutifolia Maingay ex Hook.f. from West Bengal, India, representing an extension of its known distribution in India. During field investigations in northern West Bengal, Dischidia ruscifolia Decne. ex Becc. and Dischidia ovata Benth. were also documented in a naturalized state in wild habitats. Their successful establishment beyond cultivation suggests on going adaptation to local environmental conditions. A detailed taxonomic description, habitat, phenology, distribution, notes and host preference with zoning criteria are presented here to facilitate for easy identification of the species. The study further elaborates heir zone preference and epiphytic associations, contributing to the understanding of their ecological amplitude and potential implications for native vegetation in the Indian wilderness.