Informatics Publishing Limited

Sumit Chakravarty , C. P. Suresh , Anju Puri , Gopal Shukla

Abstract

North East India is the geographical 'gateway' for much of India's flora and fauna and as a consequence, the region is one of the richest in the world in biological values. Within India, the north eastern part is the richest in floristic diversity and thus has immense valuable genetic resources which are now threatened to extinction unless urgent and proper actions are taken to conserve these valuable forest genetic resources at local, national and international level. The paper describes in detail the recorded forest genetic resources of the region in general and the constituents states of the region separately in particular.

Keywords

North East India, Phytodiversity, Forest Genetic Resources, Conservation

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Sumit Chakravarty ¹, Prakash Rai ¹, Anju Puri ², Gopal Shukla ¹, Nazir A. Pala ¹

Affiliations
1 Department of Forestry, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya Pundibari West Bengal, IN
2 Barring Union Christian College, Batala Punjab, IN

Abstract

Ginkgo biloba L., the maidenhair tree and a living fossil that survived the first atomic explosion in Japan reminds us with hope of survival. It is the single surviving species of the Order Ginkgoales that has restricted wild distribution in China. The Ginkgo biloba has multitude medicinal, spiritual and horticultural importance worldwide. It is amongst few plant species that have been traditionally or scientifically used and evaluated for their possible medicinal applications. Its usage has been documented in traditional Chinese medicine since 5000 years. Now, it is one of the most widely prescribed herbals or pharmaceuticals in the western world. In spite of its rarity, long reproductive cycle and low rate of natural regeneration, the tree has been exploited indiscriminately due to its high medicinal value, forcing it to face a high risk of extinction. Unfortunately, despite of having huge medicinal properties and ornamental value, the species still has not received much conservation attention. Considering the international importance and conservation value of Ginkgo biloba multi-strategic efforts are required involving all stakeholders. In addition to its in situ and ex situ measures, environmental legislation and government planning is also essential to ensure adequate conservation of this living fossil plant.

Keywords

Ginkgo biloba, Conservation, Biodiversity, Maidenhair Tree.

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