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April-June, 2025

Rajiv Gandhi University

Center with Potential for Excellence in Biodiversity

Quarterly Journal published in April and June 2025




Editorial Board

Prof. Hui Tag

Editor-in-Chief

Email: editor.jbr@rgu.ac.in

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Article Content

VOLUME 13 (1): APRIL – JUNE 2025

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Research Article

Community engagement and conservation outlook: insights from Dhanauri and Surajpur wetlands, India

Neeti Tomar1, Monika Koul2 and A.K. Pandey1*

1Department of Botany, Mansarovar Global University, Bilkisganj, Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, India.

2Department of Botany, Hansraj College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India.

Corresponding author: arunpandey79@gmail.com

Article No.: NTJBR-2025-4; Received: 24.04.2025; Peer-reviewed: 14.05.2025; Accepted: 16.05.2025; Published: 30.06.2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16749193

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Abstract: Present study examines the extent of use, perceptions, and attitudes of local populations towards two wetlands, Dhanauri and Surajpur, Noida, Uttar Pradesh through a cross-sectional survey of one hundred residents from each location. The survey revealed that Dhanauri had a higher frequency of visitors compared to Surajpur. Most respondents in Dhanauri perceived the wetland as heavily degraded, expressing concerns about its future, while Surajpur respondents were more optimistic, with many viewing the wetland as either pristine or moderately affected. Awareness of conservation efforts was generally low in both locations, though support for protective regulations was high. These findings underscore the vital role that wetlands play in local livelihoods and highlight the need for targeted conservation efforts. Enhancing community involvement and addressing specific perceptions could improve the long-term sustainability and protection of these wetlands.

Keywords:Dhanauri and Surajpur Wetlands, Community perceptions, Livelihoods, Conservation




Research Article

Cyanotoxin profiling of seasonal spring cyanobacteria Nostoc fuscescens by LC-HRMS

Gaikwad SA1* and SP Nalawade2

*1Department of Zoology, Yashavantrao Chavan Institute of Science, Satara, Maharashtra.

2Department of Zoology, D. P. Bhosale College Koregaon, Satara, Maharashtra

Corresponding email ID: sonaliagaikwad22@gmail.com

Article No.: GSAJBR-2025-5; Received: 24.04.2025; Peer-reviewed: 17.05.2025; Accepted: 30.05.2025; Published: 30.06.2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16749234

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Abstract: Cyanotoxins, the metabolites synthesized by cyanobacteria, have a significant impact on ecosystems and are important in pharmaceutics. Cyanotoxins are of diverse chemical nature, including peptides, alkaloids, etc. and are found in various aquatic and terrestrial habitats. We investigated the presence of cyanotoxins in the cyanobacteria Nostoc fuscescens from a seasonal water spring situated in the northern Western Ghats, India. We identified cyanotoxins in N. fuscescens blooms using LC-HRMS analysis. We detected the presence of four cyanotoxins: Microcystin, Nodularin, Cylindrospermosin, and Anatoxin. Additionally, we also identified four variants of Microcystin. The results revealed that N. fuscescens contains different cyanotoxins with multiple structural variants. These results highlight the potential of cyanobacteria on wet rocks in seasonal spring to produce cyanotoxins of diverse chemical nature, that can be explored further for bioprospection.

Keywords: Water spring; Cyanotoxins; Nostoc fuscescens; Microcystin.




Research Article

Evaluation of tree species diversity in Bilaspur Conservancy with their threatened status and medicinal values.

Akanksha Singh1, Kundan Kumar Ojha1, Sushma Jaiswal2, Ashwini Kumar Dixit1

1Laboratory of Molecular Taxonomy and Medicinal Plant Biology, Department of Botany, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur 495009, Chhhattisgarh, India.

2Department of Computer Science & Information technology, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur 495009, Chhhattisgarh, India.

*†Corresponding author email: dixitak@live.com

comArticle No.: ASJBR142; Received: 18.03.2025; Peer-reviewed: 16.05.2025; Accepted: 20.05.2025; Published: 30.06.2025

Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16749217

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Abstract: India, recognized as a mega diverse country, encompasses a wide range of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, wetlands, coastal and marine environments, and deserts. Climate change has profoundly influenced forest ecosystems, altering species composition, biodiversity, and ecological functions. This study evaluates tree diversity and conservation status within the protected areas of Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, emphasizing species resilience to climatic stress and the imperative for sustainable management. A comprehensive survey recorded 120 tree species distributed across 35 families and 120 genera, with Fabaceae emerging as the most dominant family. Conservation status assessments classified 95 species as Least Concern (LC), 3 as Data Deficient (DD), 3 as Near Threatened (NT), 5 as Vulnerable (VU), and 1 as Endangered (EN). Several species exhibit adaptive traits to semi-arid conditions, underscoring their ecological significance in the context of climate change. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies integrating biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource utilization. Strengthening ecosystem governance and implementing adaptive management approaches are critical for maintaining biodiversity, ensuring ecological stability, and securing the long-term viability of forest ecosystems in the region.

Keywords: Conservancy; Diversity; Evaluation; Medicinal Values; Threatened Status; Tree.




Research Article

Aquatic Coleopteran diversity and species composition in various Lentic Waterbodies of Maharashtra, India

Mahadev Atole¹ and Balraj Khobragade²*

¹Department of Zoology, M.V.P.'s Arts, Commerce & Science College, Nandgaon, Dist. Nashik - 423106 under Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune (Maharashtra) India.

²Department of Zoology, B.P.H.E. Society’s Ahmednagar College, Ahmednagar - 414001, Maharashtra India.

*Corresponding Author email: balraj.indian@gmail.com

Article No.: MAJBR148, Received: 24.04.2025; Peer-reviewed: 19.05.2025; Accepted: 22.05.2025; Published: 30.06.2025.

Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16749244

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Abstract: Insects are the most diverse group among freshwater fauna. The present investigation deals with the diversity of aquatic beetles in six different lentic water bodies (reservoirs) in Maharashtra, India. A total number of 22 species belonging to 13 genera, 5 families of order Coleoptera of Class Insecta was recorded. Among all stations, the highest species diversity was recorded at Station-5 (at Ujani Dam); while the lowest value was recorded at Station-1 (at Mula Dam) and Station-2 (at Bhandardara Dam). The Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index recorded less diversity from Station-1 (at Mula Dam) to Station-4 (at Dhom Dam); whereas Station-5 (at Ujani Dam) and Station-6 (at Jayakwadi Dam) showed moderate diversity. Moderate pollution status of water was observed at all the six sampling stations. Simpson’s Diversity Index indicated moderate diversity from Station-1 (at Mula Dam) to Station-4 (at Dhom Dam); while Station-5 (at Ujani Dam) and Station-6 (at Jayakwadi Dam) showed high diversity. The Margalef’s Diversity Index showed highest value at Station-5 (at Ujani Dam); whereas lowest value was observed at Station-2 (at Bhandardara Dam). The Generic Richness of aquatic beetles was highest at Station-5 (at Ujani Dam); whereas lowest value was recorded at Station-1 (at Mula Dam) and Station-2 (at Bhandardara Dam). Total Abundance was recorded highest at Station-5 (at Ujani Dam); whereas lowest value was found at Station-1 (at Mula Dam). Thus, diversity status of aquatic beetles from the surveyed reservoirs is moderate, but in the coming days, rising pollution may negatively impact the overall biodiversity of the waterbodies.

Keywords: Aquatic Insects; Coleoptera; Distribution; Diversity; Reservoirs; Maharashtra




Research Article

Ampelomyces sp. - a mycoparasite of Powdery mildew of Cucurbita moschata Duch.: a report from Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh

Marbom Riba and Tenya Rina*

Department of Botany, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh -791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India

*Corresponding author email: tenyarina2017@gmail.com

Article No.: MRJBR147, Received: 24.04.2025, Peer-reviewed: 18.05.2025; Accepted: 25.05.2025; Published: 30.06.2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16749268

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Abstract: While conducting field studies of powdery mildew on pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.), in Ziro located at 27.63ºN 93.83ºE, 1500 meter above the sea level at Lower Subansiri district in Arunachal Pradesh, occurrence of Ampelomyces sp., a mycoparasite, was observed on its infected leaves during the fruiting stage. Powdery mildew is a highly destructive disease affecting wide range of host plants including members of Cucurbitaceae leading to tremendous yield loss. The study was conducted during the months of September to October, between 17.20 to 20.85 ºC and relative humidity ranging from 58 to 68%. Ampelomyces is a mycoparasite, which parasitizes on powdery mildew and has been reported as a potential biocontrol agent (BCA) against the powdery mildew disease. It is reported to be an antagonist of powdery mildew fungal pathogen, wherein they compete for nutrition, invade the cytoplasm, inhibit sporulation of conidia leading to ultimate death of the fungal pathogen, resulting in considerable mitigation of the powdery mildew disease. In this study, sub-globose to globose brownish pycnidia of Ampelomyces sp. was observed parasitizing on the hyphae of powdery mildew fungal pathogen. Also, release of pycnidiospores on the conidiophore of powdery mildew pathogen was observed, representing the mycoparasitic nature of the Ampelomyces sp. Microscopic examination at 100x and 400x magnification revealed that the Ampelomyces pycnidia invades two primary targets, the hyphae and the conidiophores of the powdery mildew fungal pathogen. From the present study, the morphological examination of pycnidia has confirmed the natural occurrence of the mycoparasite, Ampelomyces sp., in Ziro valley, which could be explored for its further evaluation as a potential Biocontrol agent.

Keywords: Powdery Mildew; Cucurbita moschata Duch.; Ampelomyces sp.; Mycoparasite; Biocontrol agents (BCAs)




Research Article

Phytochemical characterization of Saraca indica bark and investigation of antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the saponin-rich extract

Siddhesh Pote1, Gaganjyot Kaur1 and Sonali Kokane2

1Department of Bioanalytical Sciences, Gurunanak Khalsa College, Matunga, Mumbai 400019, Maharashtra, India.

Department of Chemistry, Satish Pradhan Dnyanasadhana College, Thane-400604, Maharashtra, India.

*Corresponding author email: sonalikokane@gmail.com

Article No.: SPJBR157; Received: 24.04.2025; Peer-reviewed: 25.05.2025; Accepted: 10.06.2025; Published: 30.06.2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16756149

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Abstract: Saraca indica, commonly known as Ashoka in the Indian subcontinent is well known for its ethnobotanical significance. This study delves into the phytochemical profile of Saraca indica bark and elucidates its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Utilizing analytical techniques such as Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the bark's bioactive compounds. This study revealed a rich presence of secondary metabolites including flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, and saponins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. The absence of certain compounds like reducing sugars and proteins was noted, which frames the specific biochemical profile of the bark. The saponin-rich extract, prepared using rigorous extraction methods, was analysed through GC-MS, revealing a complex mixture of compounds with varied saponin content. The antioxidant capabilities of the extract were quantified using the DPPH assay, showcasing a dose-dependent scavenging activity that underscores the extract's potential as a natural antioxidant source. Furthermore, antimicrobial tests against pathogens such as E. coli, S. pyogenes, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa demonstrated significant inhibitory effects, suggesting the extract's usefulness in combating bacterial and fungal infections. Cytotoxicity assays affirmed the non-toxic nature of the extract, highlighting its safety for potential therapeutic use. The findings of this study not only corroborate the traditional uses of Saraca indica in Ayurvedic medicine but also open avenues for its application in modern pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. By bridging traditional knowledge and contemporary scientific approaches, this research contributes to the evolving landscape of natural product research and their integration into evidence-based practices.

Keywords:Saraca indica; Bark Extract; Phytochemical; Antimicrobial, Antioxidant; Saponin; Cytotoxicity; Immunomodulatory Assay.




Research Article

Exploring bioresource utilization in traditional fishing methods among the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh

Himadri Dutta1* and Tomo Riba2

1Department of Geography, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India.

2Arunachal Pradesh University, Pasighat -791102, East Siang, Arunachal Pradesh, India.

*Corresponding author email: himadri.dt@gmail.com

Article No.: HDJBR155A; Received: 12.01.2025; Peer-reviewed: 17.04.2025; Accepted: 14.05.2025; Published: 30.06.2025.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16756137

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Abstract: Arunachal Pradesh, situated in the north eastern region of India, harbours rich biodiversity and cultural diversity. Traditional fishing practices have long been integral to the livelihoods and cultural heritage of indigenous communities inhabiting the region. This study investigates the utilization of bioresources within the context of traditional fishing methods practiced in Lower Siang, Lepa Rada, West Siang and Shi Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh. Through a combination of ethnographic fieldwork, ecological surveys and community engagement, the study aims to document and analyse the diverse array of bioresources targeted, the traditional fishing techniques employed and the socio-cultural significance of these practices. Primary data has been collected from the villagers through a combination of field surveys and interviews with local fishermen. Key findings reveal a diverse array of traditional fishing techniques deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the study area. These methods range from bamboo traps and hand nets to angling and basket weirs, each tailored to the unique environmental characteristics of the region. Utilization of local bioresources, including bamboo and natural plant fibers, in the construction of fishing gear, shows the sustainable practices embedded within traditional knowledge systems. The application of indigenous fishing gears and methods by the different tribal groups in the study area highlights the intimate connection between culture, tradition and sustainable resource management. The findings of this research offer valuable insights into the dynamics of bioresource utilization in traditional fishing methods in the study area.

Keywords: Arunachal Pradesh; Bioresource Utilization; Traditional Fishing Methods; Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK).




Research Article

Assessment of forest structure, carbon stock and regeneration dynamics in the Raipur Range of Mussoorie Forest Division, Uttarakhand, India

Manisha Pandey*, S.P Joshi and Sachin Sharma

Eco-Taxonomy Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, D.A.V. (P.G) College, Dehradun-248001, Uttarakhand, India.

*Corresponding author-mail: email:manishapandey614@gmail.com

Article No.:MPJBR126A; Received: 08.01.2025; Peer-reviewed: 12.04.2025; Accepted: 08.05.2025; Published: 30.06.2025

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16756098

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Abstract: Present study is a comprehensive assessment of the carbon stock in various tree species, the structure of the forests, and the regeneration status within the Raipur Range of the Mussoorie Forest Division, located in the Dehradun district of the Garhwal Himalaya. The Raipur Range is situated in a unique geographical area between 30°14'40" and 30°25'20" North latitude, and 78°01'80" to 78°18'00" East longitude, encompassing a total area of approximately 9,624.10 ha. The study was conducted in the between November 2022 - March 2024. To gather data, 30 sample plots (0.1 ha) were established randomly throughout the range, allowing for a representative analysis of the forest ecosystems. The investigation revealed three distinct types of forests along the altitudinal gradient of the region. Among these, the Shorea robusta forest was identified as the most dominant, characterizing the landscape and contributing significantly to the overall biomass of the area. The results indicated that the maximum total biomass was recorded at altitudes between 1,000 and 1,200 m, reaching an impressive 163.65 Mg ha⁻¹. Conversely, the study documented a minimum biomass of 128.71 Mg ha⁻¹ at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,000 m, highlighting the variations in forest productivity across different altitudinal zones. In terms of regeneration status, the overall findings suggested that forest regeneration was poor across most types, except the Pinus roxburghii forest, which demonstrated fair regeneration at the study site. This disparity in regeneration can be largely attributed to a combination of environmental factors affecting sapling growth. Specifically, the presence of a stony substratum appears to limit the establishment of young trees, while biotic interference from herbivores and competition for sunlight with more mature plants further exacerbate the challenges faced by saplings. These insights underscore the need for targeted conservation efforts to enhance forest regeneration and protect the biodiversity of the Raipur Forest Range..

Keywords:Forest Structure; Altitudinal Gradient; Carbon Stock; Phytosociology; Regeneration; Mussoorie




Research Article

Effect of mineral phosphates (K2HPO4) on mat formation, growth and biochemical responses in Tolypothrix sp. KJE1

Jalaluddin and Rajan Kumar Gupta*

Laboratory of Algal Research, Department of Botany, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi - 221005 India

*Corresponding author email: rajang.bot@bhu.ac.in

Article No.: RGJBR125; Received: 8.1.2025; Peer-reviewed: 16.06.2025; Accepted: 20.06.2025; Published: 30.06.2025.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16784924

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Abstract: Phosphate availability plays a crucial role in shaping microbial communities and influencing their structure and growth. In the present study, the impact of higher concentrations of K2HPO4 treatment on Tolypothrix sp. KJE1, was investigated. The results revealed that increased phosphate concentrations enhanced overall cellular growth and biomass productivity through improved photosynthetic performance and efficient carbon assimilation. Higher phosphate levels resulted in increased chlorophyll-a content, which is crucial for photosynthesis, as well as augmented carotenoid and scytonemin contents, which act as photoprotective pigments. Moreover, the treatment influenced the synthesis of phycobiliproteins, including phycocyanin, phycoerythrin, and allophycocyanin, which are responsible for capturing light energy. Phosphate availability also influenced chlorophyll fluorescence and exopolysaccharide production in Tolypothrix sp. KJE1. The treatment facilitated optimal photosynthetic performance and increased exopolysaccharide biosynthesis, which contributed to cell aggregation and protection against environmental stressors. Furthermore, the higher phosphate availability stimulated lipid biosynthesis and storage in Tolypothrix sp. KJE1. Phosphorus, an essential component of lipid, increased cell lipid content, while phosphate regulation of lipid metabolism and enzyme activity played a role in lipid accumulation. However, the elevated phosphate concentrations disrupted the nutrient balance, leading to decreased protein and carbohydrate content as resources were diverted towards phosphate uptake and storage. Overall, this study highlights a significant influence of phosphate availability on Tolypothrix sp. KJE1, impacting mat structure, pigment synthesis, photosynthetic efficiency, exopolysaccharide production, and lipid content. Understanding these responses enhance our knowledge of the intricate relationships between nutrient availability, microbial physiology, and ecosystem dynamics.

Keywords: Cyanobacteria; K2HPO4; Mat; Phosphate; Tolypothrix.




Research Article

Extraction and structural characterisation of nanocrystalline cellulose from bamboo biomass

Junu Poudel, Namita Nath and Bhaben Tanti*

Department of Botany, Gauhati University, Jalukbari, Guwahati-781014, Assam, India

*Corresponding author email: btanti@gauhati.ac.in

Article No.:JPJBR160; Received: 18.04.2025; Peer-reviewed: 25.05.2025; Accepted: 30.05.2025; Published: 30.06.2025

Doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16821860

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Abstract: Nanocrystalline Cellulose (NCC) is a bio-based nanomaterial of growing interest due to its renewable origin, excellent mechanical strength, and modifiable surface chemistry. In this study, NCC was extracted from bamboo fibre via. controlled acid hydrolysis, followed by purification and ultrasonication. Bamboo, a fast-growing and sustainable resource, was selected for its high cellulose yield and widespread availability. The isolated NCC was characterised using SEM, TEM, EDX, FTIR, XRD, and TGA to assess its morphological, chemical, structural, and thermal properties. SEM and TEM revealed uniformly dispersed, rod-shaped nanocrystals, while EDX confirmed high elemental purity with dominant carbon and oxygen peaks. FTIR analysis verified the removal of non-cellulosic components, and XRD results indicated an increase in crystallinity from 57.73% in raw fibre to 68.32% in NCC. Thermogravimetric analysis showed enhanced thermal stability, with 50% mass loss occurring at 301.21 °C. These results demonstrate that bamboo-derived NCC possesses favourable characteristics for integration into advanced material systems. Its structural stability and thermal resilience support its use in bio-composites, packaging materials, and biomedical applications. Future research may focus on surface functionalization of NCC and optimisation of the extraction process for industrial-scale implementation.

Keywords: Nanocrystalline Cellulose; Bamboo Biomass; Ultrasonication; Crystallinity; Thermal stability




Research Article

Formulation and evaluation of antibacterial herbal ointment from aerial parts of Sphaeranthus indicus extract

Soma Dutta Das1, Pijush Kanti Das2, Arnab Bera3 and Nilanjana Banerjee3*

1Centre for Life Sciences, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore – 721102, West Bengal, India.

2Department of Botany, Uluberia College (University of Calcutta), Uluberia, Howrah-711315, West Bengal, India.

3Department of Botany and Forestry, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore-721102, West Bengal, India.

*Corresponding author email:nilanjana@mail.vidyasagar.ac.in

Article No.: SDJBR118C; Received: 30.11.2024; Peer-reviewed: 30.03.2025; Accepted: 15.05.2025; booked for Issue 30.06.2025

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16822016

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Abstract: Sphaeranthus indicus L., commonly known as ‘Shraboni’, is a member of the Asteraceae family. Traditionally, the plant has been used to cure a variety of ailments including cold and cough, fever, liver disease, mental illnesses, diabetes, wounds, and skin diseases like cellulitis, acneiform rash, green nails, boils, blisters, and more. It is also used as an anthelmintic for kids. The primary goal of this study was to formulate an herbal ointment using an ethanolic extract of S. indicus aerial parts and assess its antibacterial efficacy. The agar well diffusion method was used to assess the invitro antibacterial activity of prepared herbal ointments against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Other physicochemical parameters, including color, odour, PH, spreadability, consistency, solubility, washability, and acute skin irritation study, were also analyzed. Zone of inhibition was used to assess the herbal ointment's antibacterial efficacy. Different phytochemicals like alkaloids, tannins, phenols, flavonoids were present in the plant extract. Invitro antibacterial study shows that S. indicus has significant antibacterial activity when formulated as ointment. The herbal ointment is also better in comparison than a commercial brand of Neosporin ointment. The results are the justification for the use of the plant in tribal medicine.

Keywords: Antibacterial; Formulation; Herbal Ointment; Phytochemicals; Sphaeranthus indicus; Tribal medicine.




Research Article

Biological spectrum, phenology, and diversity of invasive ruderal and agrestal weeds in Moradabad district of Uttar Pradesh, India

Sachin Sharma*, S. P. Joshi and Manisha Pandey

Eco-Taxonomy Research Laboratory, Department Of Botany, D.A.V. (P.G) College, Dehradun, Uttarakhand-248001 [H.N.B. Garhwal (A Central University) Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India.

*Corresponding author email: weeduttarpradesh2025@gmail.com

Article No.: SSJBR128; Received: 09.01.2025; Peer-reviewed: 12.04.2025; Accepted 16.06.2025; Published: 30.06.2025

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16842885

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Abstract: The study was conducted in Moradabad district (28°-21´ to 28°-16´ Latitude and 78°- 4´ to 79 Longitude) of western Uttar Pradesh, India, from April 2022 to June 2023, to understand the accessibility and distribution of alien invasive ruderals and agrestals weed flora. Detailed field observations on Raunkiaer’s life form for each weed species were recorded and collected weed species were arranged in different APG-IV families and grades according to the modern system of classification. Study reveals 82 weed species, classified into 64 genera, 25 APG-IV families and 8 APG-IV grades. The dominated weed family is Asteraceae and weed genera is Alternanthera. Field sampling involved extensive observations of ecological and phenological traits, including Raunkiaer's life form, for various ruderal and agrestal weed species. Weeds were categorised into 4 sub-categorise, and we get such a type of data that (68%) 56 spp. were Therophytes, followed by Phanerophytes (14%) 11 spp., Hemi-cryptophytes (7%) 6 spp., Chamaephytes (6%) 5 spp., and Cryptophytes (5%) 4 spp. The dominant life form was 65 species (79%) herb followed by 11 species (13%) shrub, 3 species (4%) climbing herb, 2 species (3%) creeping herb and 1 species (1%) climbing shrub. The study reveals that 40% of weeds are classified as ruderals, 33% as both types, and 27% as agrestals. The phyto-geographical analysis of alien invasive weed species origination represent that the maximum 49 species (60%) recorded, were from Tropical America (TAM), followed by 11 species (14%) from South America (SAM), 9 species (11%) from Tropical Africa (TAF), 4 species (5%) from the Mediterranean region (MR) and Europe (EU) each, and 1 species (1%) from Malaysia (ML), Africa (AF), North America (NAM), Brazil (BR), and Peru (PU). Phenological analysis shows maximum flowering in August and fruiting in April. The study provides baseline data on alien weed species in Moradabad district, aiding in effective management and regulatory pathways. India needs nationwide research to evaluate economic losses, identify invasion patterns, and develop effective management techniques. This information may be used to forecast phenotypic alterations and develop governance plans for these species.

Keywords: APG-IV; Biological Spectrum; Invasive Weeds; Phenology; Moradabad




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