Plant species diversity in the traditional homegardens of Meitei community: a case study from Barak Valley, Assam

Plant species diversity in the traditional homegardens of Meitei community: a case study from Barak Valley, Assam

Authors

  • N. Linthoingambi Devi Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar 788011, India
  • Ashesh Kumar Das Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar 788011, India

Keywords:

Agrobiodiversity conservation, <i>Ingkhol</i>, Species inventory

Abstract

A survey of plant species in the traditional homegardens of Meitei community was conducted in Rajubari village of Cachar district in Barak Valley (southern Assam), in northeast India. A total of 92 species (38 trees, 10 shrubs, and 44 herbs) were enumerated from 36 homegardens. Meitei homegardens, locally called Ingkhol, also varied widely in size, shape, and composition. Food products, firewood, medicinal plants, ornamentals, and some cash income are obtained from these gardens. The tree legume, Parkia timoriana (locally yongchak) is a characteristic feature of the Meitei homegardens. Intensification of betel nut (Areca catechu) production has been observed in some gardens. Many of the traditional crops grown in the Meitei homegardens have a role in the conservation and maintenance of living ‘heirlooms’ and such practices need to be strengthened. The baseline data generated suggest that traditional homegarden is a site for biodiversity management and conservation by the Meitei community.

Author Biographies

N. Linthoingambi Devi, Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar 788011, India

Ecology and Environmental Science Research Scholar

Ashesh Kumar Das, Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar 788011, India

Ecology and Environmental Science Professor

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Published

27-12-2010

How to Cite

Devi, N. L., & Das, A. K. (2010). Plant species diversity in the traditional homegardens of Meitei community: a case study from Barak Valley, Assam. Journal of Tropical Agriculture, 48(2), 45–48. Retrieved from https://jtropag.kau.in/index.php/ojs2/article/view/222

Issue

Section

Short communications

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