2022 Vol.28 No.2 PP 154-158

https://doi.org/10.33451/florafauna.v28i2pp154-158

Catalogue and Ethnobotany of Invasive Alien Grasses of Bhagalpur District (Bihar), India

*Vani Suman and Chandra Bhanu Singh

University Department of Botany
T. M. Bhagalpur University,
BHAGALPUR- 812 007 (BIHAR), INDIA
*Corresponding Author : E-mail: vanisuman@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

This paper deals with cataloging of 12 invasive alien grasses of Bhagalpur district (Bihar), India and documentation of ethnobotanical uses of these grasses in the life and economy of native people. These grasses occur as weeds (Echinochloa colona, Echinochloa crusgalli), cultivated plants (Avena sativa, Dendrocalamus giganteus, Dendrocalamus membranaceous, Dendrocalamus strictus), wild plants (Cenchrus purpureus Syn. Pennisetum purpureum, Chloris barbata, Imperata cylindrica, Paspalum dilatatum) and wild plants or weeds (Cynodon dactylon, Saccharum spontaneum) in varying frequencies throughout the geographical area of district. Cynodon dactylon and Saccharum spontaneum grow profusely round the year as dominant grasses in the entire region. All these invasive alien grasses act as valuable resources for the native people. Their utilization as fodder/forage, medicine, fibre, etc. seems to be crucial for the livelihood of rural people. Cynodon dactylon is lavishly used as excellent forage and as an effective medicine to cure anaemia, constipation, indigestion, menstrual disorders, poor urination, etc. Dendrocalamus spp. are utilized in building construction, basketry and weaving. Saccharum spontaneum is useful in thatching roofs of huts. Cynodon dactylon and Saccharum spontaneum are essentially put to use in religious ceremonies of Hindus. Commercial exploitation of Dendrocalamus spp. and Saccharum spontaneum may boost the economy of rural folk after adopting proper strategy for their efficient exploitation.

KEY WORDS : Alien, Catalogue, Ethnobotany, Invasive, Grasses