Biodiversity and ethnobotanical insights into the genus Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae) in Odisha, India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20080351Keywords:
Bhadrak district, Biological diversity, Morning glory, Water spinachAbstract
The Ipomoea genus, a prominent member of the Convolvulaceae family renowned for its morning glories, extends its significance beyond its economic applications as a source of food and ornamental beauty. Widely distributed across the globe, this remarkably diverse genus has become a major focus of investigation, contributing significantly to plant genomics knowledge and challenging plant evolution models. This research presents a comprehensive overview of Ipomoea species flourishing in the Bhadrak district of Odisha, India. The study employed field visits and literature surveys to provide baseline information on the distribution and uses of Ipomoea species in the local system. Field surveys covering three seasons were conducted, and data were collected from informants through semi-structured interviews, key informant discussions, and direct observations. A total of 16 Ipomoea species, each occupying distinct ecological niches within the district, were documented. Beyond taxonomic descriptions, the study explored the ethnomedicinal attributes associated with each species. The research contributes to botanical knowledge while highlighting the traditional and indigenous applications of these plants, potentially revealing valuable natural remedies and cultural insights. By documenting multiple species and their associated knowledge, this study serves as a valuable resource for biodiversity and ethnobotanical research.
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