Ecological Importance and Conservation Challenges of Wild Edible Vegetables in the Biodiverse landscape of Sakri Tehsil

Citation

Wagh, B. S., & Tambe, S. S. (2026). Ecological Importance and Conservation Challenges of Wild Edible Vegetables in the Biodiverse landscape of Sakri Tehsil. International Journal of Research, 13(13). https://doi.org/10.26643/ijr/2026/s13/4

Bhushan Shivaji Wagh            Satish Sampatrao Tambe

bhushan49wagh@gmail.com                   sst.sph@gmail.com   

Research centre in Botany, Mahatma Gandhi Vidyamandir’s, LokneteVyankatraoHirey Art’s, Science and Commerce College, Panchavati, Nashik- 422003 (Affiliated to Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune)

Abstract

         The western region of Sakri tehsil boasts remarkable biodiversity, offering a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. Among its inhabitants are tribal peoples residing in the pockets of Pimpalner village, who have long depended on the natural resources of their surroundings for sustenance and livelihood. These tribal communities, often economically marginalized, have traditionally turned to the abundant wild plants in their environment, utilizing them as a source of nourishment due to their high nutritional value.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the nutritional benefits offered by wild plants, many of which are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. For the tribal peoples of Pimpalner village, these wild plants represent more than just sustenance; they are an integral part of their cultural heritage and traditional knowledge systems. However, as modernization and urbanization encroach upon their ancestral lands, the preservation of these wild plant resources faces numerous challenges.

One of the primary concerns is the unsustainable harvesting of wild plants, driven by increasing population pressure and changing land use patterns. As demand for these resources continues to rise, there is a risk of overexploitation and depletion of plant populations, threatening not only the biodiversity of the region but also the food security and livelihoods of the tribal communities reliant on them.

In light of these challenges, there is an urgent need for concerted efforts to conserve and sustainably manage the wild plant resources of the western region of Sakri tehsil. Conservation strategies should aim to strike a balance between the utilization of these resources for human needs and the preservation of their ecological integrity. This requires the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and researchers.

Community-based conservation initiatives can play a crucial role in empowering tribal communities to become stewards of their natural heritage. By promoting traditional knowledge systems and sustainable harvesting practices, these initiatives can help ensure the long-term viability of wild plant resources while also enhancing the resilience of local livelihoods. Furthermore, there is a need for scientific research to identify priority species for conservation and to assess their nutritional composition and potential culinary uses.

Education and awareness-raising efforts are also essential to instill a sense of pride and ownership among local communities regarding their natural heritage. By highlighting the nutritional benefits and cultural significance of wild plants, these initiatives can foster a greater appreciation for the value of biodiversity conservation.

Key word

Biodiversity, wild plants, Tribal peoples, Conservation, Sakri, Dhule.

Introduction

In the heart of Dhule, Maharashtra, lies a vibrant tapestry of tribal life, intricately woven with a deep connection to the rich biodiversity that surrounds them. The tribal communities of Dhule have nurtured a profound relationship with the land, relying on an array of wild edible plants that form the backbone of their traditional sustenance. These communities, dispersed across the district’s diverse landscapes, have developed a unique knowledge of local flora, turning to nature’s bounty for both nourishment and cultural significance.

In the lush forests and verdant hills of Dhule, the knowledge of identifying and utilizing wild edible plants has been passed down through generations. From the elders to the youth, each member of the community learns the secrets of the land, honing their skills in recognizing the subtle nuances of nature’s offerings. Plants like Mahua flowers, Tendu leaves, and Bamboo shoots aren’t just culinary ingredients; they are threads woven into the fabric of tribal life, symbolizing a harmonious coexistence with nature.

The Mahua tree, with its sweet-scented flowers, holds a special place in the hearts of the tribal people. Beyond its culinary uses, Mahua embodies cultural significance, often featuring in rituals and ceremonies, marking moments of celebration and unity. Similarly, Tendu leaves, commonly used for rolling indigenous cigarettes, carry a multifaceted importance. While serving as a livelihood source for some, these leaves also hold medicinal properties, offering remedies for various ailments.

Bamboo, revered for its versatility, provides not only sustenance but also materials for crafting tools, utensils, and even shelter. The tribal communities of Dhule understand the value of every part of the Bamboo plant, utilizing its shoots as a delicacy and its sturdy stems for construction purposes. Such holistic utilization of resources reflects a deep-rooted respect for nature’s abundance and a sustainable approach to living in harmony with the environment.

This intimate connection with wild edible plants transcends mere sustenance; it reflects a profound understanding of ecosystems and the delicate balance between human communities and their natural surroundings. As modernity advances, preserving and acknowledging the wisdom encapsulated in the traditional knowledge of these tribal communities becomes crucial. Their age-old practices offer valuable insights into sustainable living and resource management, serving as a blueprint for navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Moreover, the significance of wild edible plants extends beyond their nutritional and cultural value. They play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, contributing to the preservation of native species and habitats. By fostering a symbiotic relationship with the land, the tribal communities of Dhule act as stewards of their ecosystems, safeguarding them for future generations.

However, this delicate balance is increasingly threatened by external pressures, including deforestation, urbanization, and climate change. As the traditional territories of the tribal communities shrink and natural habitats degrade, the survival of both people and plants hangs in the balance. Efforts to conserve these ecosystems must prioritize the inclusion of indigenous voices and the protection of their rights to land and resources.

In Maharashtra’s wild embrace, the intricate web of life intertwines human and botanical diversity in a timeless dance of mutual dependence. The resilience and ingenuity of the tribal communities of Dhule offer hope for a sustainable future, where the wisdom of the past guides us towards harmony with nature. By embracing and celebrating the traditional knowledge embodied in wild edible plants, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry of life that sustains us all.

Methodology and Study area

This study is carried out in the western region of Sakri, specially in Pimpalner. This region is situated on the western side Dhule District of the Indian state of Maharashtra. Region contains largest tribal population of the total tribal population of Dhule. Aborigines are inhabited in this region such as Bhil, Bhil Garsia, Kokna, Kokni, Kukna, Dongar Koli, Gavit, Pardi, Warli, Tadvi, etc.

A short questionary was prepared by authors and simple interviews were conducted.

The individual plant specimen is identified by using following keys.

1. Botanical name
2. Family.
3. Local name.
4. Habit.
5. Plant part used.
6. Ethnobotanical use.

The questionnaire is given by S. K. Jain (1987) is as follows.

Collection no.                                                                                                 Date:

Place
Recorded by
Informer Name	Sex:                                      Age:
Local Name Plant
Plant Part Use
Preparation and Uses
Wild / Cultivated

                                                                                                            Signature of Informer

Result and Discussion

Sr.No	Name	Common Name	Family	Methods ofconsumption
1	Wrightia tinctoria	Kala Kuda	Apocynaceae	Young Pods As vegetable
2	Oroxylum indicum	Tetu	Bignoniaceae	Pod As vegetable
3	Cucurbita maxima	Bhopla	Cucurbitaceae	Fruits As vegetable
4	Sesbania grandiflora	Hadga	Fabaceae	Young pods and flowers As vegetable
5	Abelmoschus ficulneus	Ranbhendi	Malvaceae	Fruits As vegetable
6	Phyllanthus amarus	Bhuiavali	Phyllanthaceae	Fruits As vegetable
7	Moringa oleferia	Shevga	Moringaceae	Pods and flowers Eaten boiled or vegetables
8	Ficus racemose	Umbar	Moraceae	Unrip and ripe fruits Unripe fruits as vegetable
9	Bombax ceiba	Kate Savar	Bombacaceae	Flower is used as vegetable
10	Amaranthus polygonoides	Tandulja	Amaranthaceae	Entire plant is used as a vegetable
11	Cordia dichotoma	Bhokar	Ehretiaceae	The inflorescence is used as vegetable
12	Diplocyclos palmatus	Mahadevpind	Cucurbitaceae	Leaves are used as vegetable

Nutritional Values:

Rich in Micronutrients: Wild vegetables are typically high in essential vitamins (like A, C, E, and K) and minerals (such as iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium), which are vital for maintaining health.

Diverse Phytochemicals: They are abundant in phytochemicals like flavonoids and carotenoids, offering antioxidant properties that help in combating oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

High Dietary Fiber: Wild vegetables usually have higher fiber content compared to cultivated varieties, which is beneficial for digestive health.

Low Caloric Content: Many wild vegetables are low in calories yet nutrient-dense, making them excellent for balanced diets.

Need for Conservation:

Genetic Diversity: Wild vegetables represent a reservoir of genetic diversity which is crucial for crop improvement and resilience to pests and environmental changes.

Cultural Heritage: They are an integral part of traditional diets and local cultures, with indigenous knowledge systems surrounding their use.

Food Security: Wild vegetables can be vital in times of food scarcity. They are often more resilient to climatic changes and can grow in harsh conditions where cultivated crops might fail.

Medicinal Value: Many wild vegetables have medicinal properties, used in traditional medicine, and can be a source for developing new pharmaceuticals.

Ecosystem Services: They play a role in the ecosystem, contributing to soil health, water regulation, and providing habitat for wildlife.

Conservation strategies include sustainable harvesting practices, habitat protection, cultivation in home gardens, and incorporating them into agricultural systems (agroforestry). Additionally, documenting traditional knowledge and supporting policies that protect both the plants and the indigenous rights to use these plants are essential. Public awareness and education on the value of these plants can also encourage conservation efforts.

Acknowledgement

The author expresses gratitude to the Head of the Research Center in Botany, L.V.H College Panchvati, Nashik, and Dr. Atul Wagh for their invaluable support and guidance throughout this research endeavor. Additionally, heartfelt thanks are extended to the local tribes for generously sharing their knowledge and providing essential information about the plants from the specified area. Their collaboration and assistance have been instrumental in enriching this study and advancing our understanding of traditional plant uses and biodiversity.

References

1. Kiran U. Gaikwad (2019) Studies on wild plant Species used by tribal people of Shirpur Tehsil Dist. Dhule in their traditional food items- International Journal of Research and Analytical Reviews.
2. Kshirsagar PP, Bhogaonkar PY, & Marathe VR(2012). Underutilized wild fruits of North Maharashtra. J. of Research in Plant Sci. 1: 071-076.
3. Sachin D. Kuvar, Rajendra D. Shinde, 2019, WILD EDIBLE PLANTS USED BY KOKNI TRIBE OF NASIK DISTRICT, MAHARASHTRA, Journal of Global Biosciences, Vol. 8(2), 2019 pp. 5936-5945
4. Singh, N. P. , Krathikeyan, S. (2000). Flora Of Maharashtra state -Dicotyledons, Vol. I, Botanical Survey Of India (BSI), Culcutta. India