Wild edible and Fodders plants of Hojai, Hawaipur and Komorakata reserve forest of Hojai District, Assam, India.

Abstract

Anthropogenic pressure and urbanization are leading to decline in forest cover, biodiversity and biological sustainability. Present study was conducted in Hojai, Hawaipur and Komorakata Reserve Forests of Hojai vicinity. Present study indicates the wild edible plants (WEP) and its diversity through ethnobotanical study among different local ethnic peoples. Data was collected through field visit and information gathered from the ethnic groups of nearby areas. The study recorded 72 wild food plants belonging to 58 genera and 43 families including two fern species. The plants exhibited diverse habit-groups with herbs 43 %, trees 24 %, climbers 3 %, shrubs 19% and aquatic herbs 8 %. The study area is contiguous and falling under the elephant reserves. It will contribute towards biodiversity food source of wild animals also. Ethnobotanical study of wild food plants can lead to the conservation status and importance.