TITLE:
Studies on Vegetative and Reproductive Ecology of Paris polyphylla Smith: A Vulnerable Medicinal Plant
AUTHORS:
Chitta Ranjan Deb, Sakutemsu L. Jamir, Nangshimeren Sakutemsu Jamir
KEYWORDS:
Associated Species, Floral Biology, Niche Characterization, Primary Habitat, Reproductive Biology
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Plant Sciences,
Vol.6 No.16,
October
21,
2015
ABSTRACT: Paris polyphylla Smith is an important medicinal plant that is considered vulnerable in many parts
of the world. The species exhibits poor adaptability to changed environment and susceptible to
climatic conditions for reproductive vigor. During the present study the species was studied in
four different natural niches as well as synthetic habitats to check the adaptability to artificial
conditions, its morphological and physiological characters and its interaction in its community so
that conservation strategies could be worked out. The present study indicates that P. polyphylla
exhibits healthy growth as well as reproduction in undisturbed area with canopy covers over 80%.
The plant grows in well-drained rich humus soil and grows well with certain key associated species
such as Quercus species, Taxus baccata, Aconitum species, Eupatorium adenophorum, Smilax
species etc. Many plants were non-flowering and more than 60% were found non-flowering in its
habitat during its flowering season in any particular year. There are clear morphological changes
as the flowers stages from pre-fertilization to post-fertilization. Arrangement of anthers in two
whorls shows a distinct and unique floral display. Light is an important factor during seed setting
and less than 50% shade lowers the seed productivity very significantly. Predators such as slugs
and snails are found on the plant. Urgent conservation and new innovative ways are necessary to
propagate this economically important plant to ensure its continuity.