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VOLUME 11 (2): JULY – SEPTEMBER 2024
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Research Article
Taxonomic diversity of rainy season weeds in different agricultural ecosystems in the Moradabad district, Uttar Pradesh, India
Sachin Sharma*, S. P. Joshi, Manisha Pandey
Eco-Taxonomy Research Laboratory, Botany Department, D.A.V. (P.G.) College Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248001 (H.N.B Garhwal Central University, Srinagar, Uttarakhand) India.
Corresponding author: sachin54907@gmail.com
Article No.: SSJBR109; Received: 29.08.2024; Peer-reviewed: 15.09.2024; Revised and Accepted: 16.09.2024; Published: 30.09.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800336
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: A detailed study of rainy season weeds was done in agricultural land in the Moradabad
district (28°-21' to 28°-16' Latitude North and 78°-4' to 79° Longitude East) from May 2021 to June 2022. The study looked at five main crops: three cereals, one
sugar-producing crop, and one oil-producing crop. During the research period, 144 weed species (97 broad leaf weeds, 41 grassy weeds, and 6 sedge weeds) were recorded from 32
angiosperm phylogenetic group families. Sugarcane fields had the most weed species collected (136), followed by maize fields (83), Mentha (68), pearl millet (63),
and rice fields (58). A floristic and systematic examination of weeds finds that the top seven weed families, with Poaceae (40 species), are the most dominant.
22 weed species were common in all the aforementioned five crops, and they generally belong to the different plant families. Poaceae (10 species), the worry weed species
families were also organised in this part based on the APG-IV classification system and the concern grade system. Commelinids account for the biggest percentage (33%),
followed by Fabids (15%), Lamiids (14%), Superasterids (14%), Campanulids (12%), Malvids (10%), Eudicots (1%), and Asterids (1%). In the floristic study of different crops,
maximum weeds flowering is reported in the month of August by different (33) weed species and minimum flowering in the month of January by (1) weed species, whereas maximum
fruiting is reported in the month of December by (28) weeds and minimum in the months of May (1sp.) and July (1sp.).
Keywords: Agriculture; APG –IV; Flowering; Moradabad; Rainy season; Weeds
Research Article
Wild edible plants consumed by the Aka tribe in East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, India
Likha Rido, Pokhaw Khangam, Sumpam Tangjang, Tonlong Wangpan*
Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791109, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Corresponding email ID: twangpan@gmail.com
Article No.: LRJBR100C; Received: 03.05.2024; Peer-reviewed: 18.07.2024; Revised & Accepted: 25.08.2024; Published: 30.09.2024
DOI: Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800429
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: This study documented wild edible plants (WEPs) consumed by the Aka community of the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.
Using the Rapid Assessment Technique (RAA), the field survey was carried out in six randomly selected Aka inhabited villages. Total of 120 informants were randomly selected and
interviewed for documentation of ethnobotanical knowledge of wild edible plants. Information was collected using semi structured questionnaires and focus group discussions.
A total of 74 species of wild edible plants belonging to 59 genera and 43 families were recorded. With four species each, Rosaceae and Dioscoreaceae were reported to be the most
dominant family, followed by Urticaceae, Solanaceae, Asteraceae, Arecaceae, Anacardaceae, and Amaranthaceae. To revive and recover some of the lost traditional knowledge,
it is also necessary to promote general awareness among the local population about the nutritional and livelihood potential of the wild edible plants.
Keywords: Aka tribe; Wild edible plants; Livelihood; Ethnobotany; West Kameng; Arunachal Pradesh
Research Article
GC-MS based metabolite profile, assessment of in vitro antioxidant and anticoagulant properties of Melastoma malabathricum L. extracts
Porismita Nath1, Rupamoni Thakur1,2*
1Department of Zoology, Dergaon Kamal Dowerah College, Dergaon– 785614, Golaghat, Assam, India.
2Department of Life Sciences, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh-786004, Assam, India.
*†Corresponding author email: rupamonithakur@dibru.ac.in
Article No.: RMJBR95C; Received: 5.12.2023; Peer-Reviewed: April 2024; Revised and Accepted: 14.08.2024; Published: 30.09.2024
Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800455
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Melastoma malabathricum L., commonly known as Indian Rhododendron is an herbaceous shrub, widely used in traditional
medicine to treat diseases like diabetes, wound healing, and bacterial infections. This study highlights the metabolite profile, and antioxidant capacity along with the
anticoagulant and in vitro thrombolytic properties of the leaf extract (MMLE) and flower extract (MMFE) of M. malabathricum L. GC-MS based metabolite profiling of the
methanolic MMLE and MMFE established the presence of compounds like Squalene (12.63%), Catechol (6.04%), .beta.-Sitosterol (5.99%) in MMLE and 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (17.97%),
Diosgenin (10.09%), 4H-Pyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl- (8.71%) in MMFE. Free radical scavenging activity assays affirmed the strong antioxidant properties
of both MMLE and MMFE. Both MMLE and MMFE demonstrated better proteolytic specificity towards fibrinogen than casein. Further, electrophoretic analysis of fibrinogen degradation
products revealed that MMLE exhibited αβ-fibrinogenase activity and degraded the γ-band of fibrinogen. However, MMFE demonstrated weak αβ-fibrinogenase activity with little effect
on the γ-band of fibrinogen. MMLE exhibited dose-dependent anticoagulant properties and inhibited the prothrombin activation property of Factor Xa. However, MMFE showed no
significant impact on the blood coagulation process despite its ability to inhibit Factor Xa. Both MMLE and MMFE had substantial in vitro clot (thrombus) lysis properties.
The present study substantiates the presence of important metabolites with significant pharmacological roles. In addition, the study also highlights the potential effects
of the plant extracts in blood coagulation processes which can be of therapeutic relevance in the field of cardiovascular drug discovery.
Keywords: Melastoma malabathricum L.; Metabolite Profiling; Antioxidant; Anticoagulant; Blood Coagulation; Thrombolytic.
Research Article
A field report on the Rotifer fauna of Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Bikramjit Sinha
Zoological Survey of India, North Eastern Regional Centre, Risa Colony, Shillong 793003, Meghalaya, India.
sinhabj@gmail.com
*Corresponding Author email: kuntal@gargi.du.ac.in (Kuntal)
Article No.: BSJBR101A; Received: 10.08.2024; Peer-reviewed and Accepted: 18.09.2024; Published: 30.09.2024
Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800494
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Analysis of samples from the aquatic habitats of Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh revealed that the freshwater
rotifer diversity of the Sanctuary comprises of 9 species belonging to 5 genera, 4 families and 2 orders. Out of the 9 species, one species, Asplanchna brightwelli is a new record
to the state and three species (Brachionus bidentatus, B. diversicornis and Keratella tropica) are confirmatory reports from the state. The need of extensive sampling from different
aquatic habitats of the sanctuary particularly the mid and high elevation areas and their detailed analysis is necessary to unearth the actual Rotifer diversity of the Sanctuary.
Keywords: Rotifera; Eastern Himalaya; Arunachal Pradesh; Protected Areas; Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary
Resarch Article
Ethnobotany of medicinal plants used by the Bodo community living along urban localities of Kokrajhar district in BTAD region of Assam, India
Jenima Basumatary, Rinchin Norbu Thungon, Pallabi Kalita Hui, Hui Tag*
Higher Plant Systematics and Ethnobotanical Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding author email: huitag2008rgu@gmail.com
Article No.: JBJBR105A; Received: 18.07.2024; Peer-revied: 14.08.2024; Revised & Accepted: 5.09.2024; Published: 30.09.2024.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800516
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Present study has documented medicinal plants used by the Bodo community living in the urban localities (villages) of
Kokrajhar district of BTAD, Assam. 20 villages of urban localities were visited randomly and 60 informants (27 male and 33 female) were interviewed using structured questionnaire
format and focused group discussion. Study recorded rich diversity of 104 species of medicinal plant belonging to 94 genera and 56 families found to be utilized for treatment of
30 ailments. Asteraceae was reported with the highest number of 8 species.
Research Article
A report on metabolite content, antioxidant and antibacterial potential of Gnetum gnemon L. cone extract
Mridula Devi1, Madhushmita Nath2, Barnali Das3, Parag Jyoti Sarma4, Malaya Medhi5, Mijing Boro6, Rantumoni Sharma7, Himashree Kalita8, Debashish Borbora9, Namita Nath*
1,2,3,4,5,6,7*Department of Botany, Gauhati University, Guwahati-781014, Assam.
8,9Department of Biotechnology, Gauhati University, Guwahati-781014, Assam
2Department of Botany, Tihu College, Nalbari, 781371, Assam
3Department of Botany, Pragjyotish College, Bharalukh, Guwahati-781009, Assam
*Corresponding author email: nathnamita1@gauhati.ac.in
Article No.: MDJBR98A; Received: 13.07.2024; Peer-reviewed: 20.08.2024; Revised & Accepted: 12.09.2024; Published: 30.09.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800537
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Plant-derived bioactive compounds have emerged as promising sources of medicinal uses. Herbal medicine which is mainly based
on region-specific knowledge and skills has been employed in the Indian subcontinent since ancient times. Gnetum gnemon, an important medicinal plant native to Southeast Asia holds a
significant therapeutic value in traditional Indian medicine. This research focuses on the less-explored cone extract of G. gnemon in Assam (India), shedding light on its metabolite
content, anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties. The analysis reveals significant phenol and flavonoid content in the G. gnemon cone extract demonstrating moderate antimicrobial
activity along with DPPH and H2O2 radical scavenging effect. Further exploration using GC-MS analysis identifies compounds like Pentatriacontane, Pentacosane, Gamma sitosterol,
gamma.-Tocopherol, Vitamin E, Campesterol, and Stigmasterol, known for their anti-corrosive, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The plant is
culturally significant among tribes in Northeast India, where fresh leaves of G. gnemon are employed for various medicinal purposes, including malarial treatment. This study addresses
the paucity of phytochemical data through investigations into G. gnemon cone extracts in Northeast India. This brief report contributes to a deeper understanding of the medicinal
potential and paving the way for novel therapeutic applications in traditional and complementary medicine systems and the pharmaceutical industry.
Keywords: Gnetum gnemon; Metabolite content; Antioxidant; Antibacterial activities; Assam.
Research Article
Medicinal plants used by the native inhabitants of Nandikeswar, Jamugurihat in the Sonitpur district of Assam, India
Mayuri Bhagawati*, Chayan Dhar, Dipan Sarma, Badal Kumar Datta
Plant Taxonomy and Biodiversity Laboratory, Department of Botany, Tripura University, Suryamaninagar – 799022, Tripura, India.
*Corresponding author email: mayuribot13@gmail.com
Article No.: MBJBR114; Received: 20.08.2024; Peer-reviewed: 10.09.2024; Accepted: 10.09.2024; Published: 30.09.2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800562
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Northeast India is a part of East Himalaya and Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot region with rich floristic elements and traditional knowledge.
Nandikeswar is a village in Sonitpur district of Assam where the inhabitants till use and preserve their traditional knowledge of native medicinal flora that they acquired from their ancestors.
Present study documents medicinal plants and associated traditional knowledge used for treating various ailments of their localities. A total 13 informants including 6 traditional healers (Bej)
and 7 elderly people of the village were interviewed. Ethnomedicinal data collected were analyzed and presented in graphs and tabulated form. This study recorded 75 species of medicinal plants belonging
to 51 families which were found to be utilized by respondents for treating various ailments. Highest application of medicinal plants was recorded for skin problems (14%), which is followed by cough-cold
(11%), hair problems (7%), jaundice (6.66%), etc. Majority of the species were found belonging to Euphorbiaceae, Lamiaceae family with 5 species each which is followed by Zingiberaceae (4), Fabaceae (4),
Rutaceae (3), Apocynaceae (3), Apiaceae, Phyllanthaceae, Poaceae, Rubiaceae, Combretaceae with 2 species each. Herbaceous species were found recorded in maximum number which is followed by trees, shrubs
and climbers while majority of the herbal treatment employs fresh leaves.
Keywords: Assam; Ethnomedicine; Medicinal plants; Nandikeswar; Northeast India; Sonitpur; Traditional healers.
Research Article
Study on Human-Monkey conflict in the Nagaon district of Assam: local mitigation measures
RRadha Rani Dutta1, Bhabana Das2, Jyotismita Das1*, Kabyashree Kakati
1Department of Zoology, Nowgong College (Autonomous), Nagaon, Assam, 782001.
2Department of Zoology, Dudhnoi College, Dudhnoi, Goalpara, Assam, 783124.
*Corresponding author email: dasjyotismitaecology@gmail.com
Article No.: RRJBR86A; Received: 10.06.2024; Peer-reviewed: 18.08.2024; Revised and Accepted: 13.09.2024; Published: 30.09.2024
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800585
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Human-monkey conflict is a serious issue that causes a negative impact on both human and the conservation of primates. A study was conducted from January 2023 to May 2023 in
Nagaon and Kaliabar subdivision of Assam, India to assess the cause and consequences of human-monkey conflicts. Data were collected by interviewing local people with structured questionnaire set
followed by focused group discussion. Attitudes of locals towards crop damage inflicted by the monkeys were assessed and recorded. The local deterrent methods for reducing crop damage and the management
strategy adopted by the local people was also assessed. This study indicates that macaques in rural areas affect people’s daily lives and income. The study showed the quantum of harm done to human due
to macaques mainly in the areas of Nagaon and Kaliabar subdivision of Assam, and people’s perceptions of the severity of warfare. A wide range of protection measures was used by people to protect their
gardens or homes from macaques. Guarding was the most frequent strategy, and the differences in the time spent by macaques in gardens/farms when people were present were much lower than when they were absent.
However, people felt that guarding was a taxing method as it meant that someone had to be present all the time, and this affected their day-to-day lives. Controlling the increase of macaque populations
became an alternative that the villagers thought could be an important measure of decreasing the magnitude of the problem. However, individuals had been unsure as to how this can be executed and didn’t see the
government or wooded area branch taking any foreseeable steps on this course. Moving macaques to forest reserves become what humans favoured as a mitigation strategy and strongly believed that macaques in
their villages ought to be relocated elsewhere in the wildlife sanctuary..
Keywords: WTraditional Ethnocraft; Rural Artisans; Angiosperm Species; Creativity; Skills; Sherdukpen Tribe; Cultural Identity; Livelihood
Research Article
Ethnomedicinal plants used by inhabitants of Naoboicha Sub-Division, Lakhimpur district, Assam
Priyanka Gogoi1, M. Mathiyazhagan1, Pokhaw Khangam2, Likha Rido2, Tonlong Wangpan2, Sumpam Tangjang2*
1Department of Botany, Silapathar Science College, Silapathar, Dhemaji, Assam.
2Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding author email: sumpam.tangjang@rgu.ac.in
Article No.: PGJBR96A; Received: 18.04.2023; Peer-reviewed: 10.10.2023; Accepted: 12.04.2024; Published: 30.09.2024.
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14800616
View Abstract | PDF
This study aimed to explore, enumerate, and document the ethnomedicinal plants utilised by the indigenous population of the Naoboicha Subdivision,
Lakhimpur District, Assam, for the treatment of various physical ailments. A comprehensive field survey included personal interviews and group discussions.
A total of 103 informants, comprising 57 females and 46 males, were interviewed. Furthermore, exclusive interviews were conducted with traditional
healers, known as 'Bez', to obtain authentic information on ethnomedicines. This study enumerates 65 medicinal plants, belonging to 41 families, utilised to
treat 77 types of ailments in the Naoboicha Subdivision. Herbs constitute the largest group of plants employed for medicinal purposes, with leaves being the
most frequently harvested part utilised for preparing remedies. While traditional healers are generally reluctant to disclose their complete knowledge, the
exploration and documentation of these ethnomedicinal plants are crucial for the conservation of indigenous and traditional knowledge.
Keywords: Ethnomedicine; Naoboicha; Lakhimpur; Traditional Healers; Medicinal Plants; Conservation.
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