Mastering Plant Identification: St. Thomas College Thrissur Hosts Two-Day Plant Taxonomia Training

St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur, once again proved its academic strength in botanical sciences.
The college hosted a two-day intensive hands-on training programme, “Plant Taxonomia 2026,” on January 30 and 31.
The event focused on plant identification, taxonomy, and herbarium techniques, which are vital for biodiversity conservation in Kerala.

Organised by the Department of Botany and the STC Herbarium, the workshop attracted students and young researchers from across the state.
The programme blended classical taxonomy with modern scientific practices, making it both relevant and future-ready.

Inauguration Highlights: Emphasising Biodiversity Conservation

The workshop began with a formal inauguration.
Rev. Fr. Biju Panengadan, Executive Manager of St. Thomas College, inaugurated the programme.

Following this, Dr. (Fr.) Martin K. A., Principal, delivered the presidential address.
He highlighted that taxonomic knowledge is the first step towards protecting biodiversity, especially in ecologically rich regions like Kerala.

Dr. Geethu Elizabeth Thomas, Head of the Department of Botany, welcomed the gathering.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Joby Paul.

Day One: Field-Based Learning and Herbarium Training

The first day focused on theory combined with real-world field experience.
This approach helped participants understand plants beyond textbooks.

Key Sessions on Day One

• Systematic Plant Collection and GIS Applications
  The technical sessions opened with Ms. Sreeshma P. S. from Govt. College, Kasaragod.
  She explained systematic plant collection methods and the use of geospatial tools in floristic research.
• Field Practicum at Kalasamala, Kunnamkulam
  Participants then visited Kalasamala for hands-on fieldwork.
  The session was jointly led by Ms. Sreeshma P. S. and Dr. Joby Paul.
  Students practiced:
  • In-situ plant identification
  • Ethical specimen collection
  • Recording ecological and environmental data
• Herbaria and Nomenclature Rules
  Dr. Joby Paul delivered detailed lectures on:
  • The scientific importance of herbaria
  • The International Code of Nomenclature (ICN)
• Herbarium Preparation Lab Session
  A practical session followed, led by:
  • Ms. Abiya C. Varghese
  • Ms. Aleena Tharakan
  • Ms. Krishnapriya P.
  • Ms. Dincy K. Litton
  Students gained hands-on experience in specimen mounting and documentation.

Day Two: Advanced Plant Identification Skills

The second day shifted focus to advanced taxonomic techniques.
These skills are essential for accurate plant classification and research publication.

Practical and Expert-Led Sessions

• Floral Dissection and Botanical Diagrams
  Prof. Ebin P. J., Sacred Heart College, Thevara, led a hands-on session.
  He trained participants in:
  • Floral dissection
  • Construction of floral diagrams
  • Writing floral formulae
• Taxonomic Keys and Use of Floras
  Dr. Joby Paul guided students on:
  • Preparing taxonomic keys
  • Using standard Floras for plant identification
• Role of the Botanical Survey of India (BSI)
  Ms. Akshitha M. R. explained the institutional role of BSI in Indian taxonomy.
• Tribute to the “Unknown Soldiers” of Taxonomy
  Ms. Anu C. Benny, SN College, Nattika, delivered a thoughtful session.
  She highlighted the silent contributions of taxonomists to science and conservation.

Masterclass on Publishing New Plant Species

The technical programme concluded with an inspiring masterclass.
Prof. Dr. Sreehari S. Nair, St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam, led the session.

He explained the complete “Taxonomic Workflow”, including:

• Species validation
• Documentation standards
• Publication protocols

This session gave participants a clear roadmap for scientific publishing in plant taxonomy.

Strengthening Kerala’s Botanical Research Culture

“Plant Taxonomia 2026” strengthened Kerala’s role in botanical education and biodiversity research.
The workshop also reflected the academic excellence of Thrissur-based institutions, often called the cultural capital of Kerala.

Such programmes nurture young scientists and promote nature conservation—“prakrithi samrakshanam”—through knowledge.

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