Edible fruit yielding plants of shevaroy hills in tamil nadu
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Edible fruit yielding plants of shevaroy hills in tamil nadu
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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C. Alagesaboopathi, S. Balu, P. Dwarakan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Edible fruit yielding plants of shevaroy hills in tamil nadu
Year: 1996
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article explores the edible fruit yielding plants found in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, highlighting findings from a medicinal plant survey conducted in the region. The study identified thirty species belonging to twenty-three genera and twenty-one families that produce edible fruits, which are critical for the local communities' sustenance, particularly during unfavorable environmental conditions. The Shevaroy Hills, inhabited by the local tribal population known as Malaiyalis, is situated within the Eastern Ghats, and the diverse flora of the area contributes significantly to the region's ecology and the livelihoods of its inhabitants.
Importance of Edible Fruits in Local Culture
Fruits serve not only as an essential food source for the Malaiyali people but also reflect the rich biodiversity of the Shevaroy Hills. The tribal communities rely on these natural resources, especially during times of adversity, to meet their nutritional needs. This reliance on local flora illustrates a symbiotic relationship between the indigenous populace and their environment, showcasing traditional knowledge regarding the utilization of native plants for health and sustenance. The abundance of edible fruits is intertwined with cultural practices, providing not only nourishment but also contributing to the identity and heritage of the Malaiyalis.
Conclusion
The Shevaroy Hills represent a unique ecosystem that supports a variety of edible fruit yielding plants essential for the local population. Understanding the significance of these fruits in the lives of the Malaiyali people enhances appreciation for the region's natural wealth and highlights the importance of conserving such indigenous biodiversity. Protecting these resources is vital not only for the sustenance of the local communities but also for maintaining the ecological balance within the hill range. The findings from this study underscore the necessity for further research and conservation efforts to preserve both the flora and the cultural heritage of the Shevaroy Hills.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What type of plants were surveyed in Shevaroy Hills?
The survey focused on common edible fruit yielding plants, identifying thirty species belonging to twenty-three genera and twenty-one families in the Shevaroy Hills region of Tamil Nadu.
Who are the native people of Shevaroy Hills?
The native people are called Malaiyali, meaning 'Mountain Man,' and are considered descendants of Kanchipuram Vellalar, migrating between the seventh and eleventh centuries.
What is the climate like in Shevaroy Hills?
The climate varies with altitude, classified as semi-arid lower down, while elevated regions experience humid tropical conditions, receiving most rainfall between May and November.
What vegetation is found at different altitudes in Shevaroy Hills?
Vegetation varies by altitude, with scrub at lower altitudes, deciduous forests between 800m and 1200m, and semi-evergreen forests between 1300m and 1600m, particularly undisturbed at Sanyasi Hills.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Edible fruit yielding plants of shevaroy hills in tamil nadu”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. In the context of the article, ancient and contemporary scientific methods are employed to document and analyze the edible fruit-yielding plants of the Shevaroy Hills. This knowledge is crucial for understanding biodiversity and the ecological roles these plants play in their environment.
2) Botany:
Botany is the branch of biology that focuses on the study of plants, including their physiology, structure, growth, and distribution. The article discusses various edible fruit-yielding plants in Shevaroy Hills, which falls under the domain of botany. This scientific discipline helps in documenting plant species important for ecological balance and human nutrition.
3) Soil:
Soil is the upper layer of earth in which plants grow, consisting of organic matter, minerals, gases, liquids, and countless organisms. The article mentions red sandy loam soil in the Shevaroy Hills, which affects the type of vegetation that can thrive in the area. Understanding soil types is vital for agricultural practices and sustainable land management.