The paper deals with the taxonomy and economic aspects of the Indian species of the genus Cynodon Rich. ex Pers. The nomenclatural history of the genus and the value of different morphological characters in its taxonomy are discussed. The genus is represented in India by three indigenous species, viz. C. dactylon (L.) Pers., C. barberi Rang. et Tad. and C. arcuatus J. S. Presl ex C. B. Presl, and one form of the species C. barberi, viz. C. barberi Rang. et Tad. f. longifolius Jain. C. plectostachyus (K. Schum.) Pilger has been introduced into India for fodder.
The botanical description, vernacular names, etymology, synonymy and references to selected published literature and illustrations are given; the distribution, ecology and economic aspects are also discussed. All specimens examined during this study are cited; an index of the numbered exsiccata is provided.
A conspectus of synonymous names shows the present nomenclatural position of the numerous binomials published either under the genus Cynodon, or for the Indian species of this genus.