Tropical Plant Research

Tropical Plant Research

An International Journal by Society for Tropical Plant Research

ISSN (E): 2349-1183 ISSN (P): 2349-9265
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2017, VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2Pages: 286-296

Plants struggling to receive proper identity at Bhadaure Tamagi of Kaski district, Nepal

Bimal Bahadur Kunwar*
*Research, Community Development and Conservation Center (C3DR), Pokhara-25, Hemja, Nepal
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Abstract:
Neglected and underutilized plant species have a potential to contribute to food security and poverty alleviation. Most plant species consumed as food across the world are neglected and underutilized. These includes plants with edible fruits, grains, leaves, nuts, oils, roots and tubers, fibers, medicines, spices, stimulants and their derived products. Until now, there was very limited information available on the utility of plants for different purposes in the study area. Thus, to minimize the gaps, the research was carried out at Bhadaure village of Kaski District, Nepal. Data were collected from the different sites through the application of Participatory Research Appraisal methods i.e. direct observation, household survey, individual interviews and key informant interview. This was followed by the field visit with the help of community members where collection of the plant samples and capturing of the photograph was done. Then each species was evaluated for nine parameters (extent of the production, extent of consumption, degree of consumption, perceived nutritional value, cultural importance, medicinal properties, market use, market value and contribution to household income). From the community interaction and field visit a list of 66 plants were extracted as underutilized plants in the study area. They were from various habitats. About 55% of the species were collected from natural or semi-natural vegetation, particularly forest. 33% of the plants were used for vegetable. The collection or harvesting period of the recorded plant were varies on the case of species. The availability of wild plants has also declined drastically. Young generation was not so much interested in these plants. Some of these plants were observed on market places being sold at competitive prices. Specific household members consume these plants. Commercialization of these fruits is mainly undertaken by the low resource base farmers.
Map of the research area: <strong></strong>Bhadaure Tamagi Village.

Fig.: Map of the research area: Bhadaure Tamagi Village.


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