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India, one of the 12 mega-biodiversity countries of the world, represents 23 species of the Chlorophytum. There are pressing demands on the biodiversity and bioresources of Western Ghats and Chlorophytum is one of the highly demanded medicinal entities, as Chlorophytum has export value and there is a vast demand for its roots under the trade name 'Safed Musali'. The roots of various species are collected from nature with all possible sources. Even all the species of Chlorophytum are not studied properly for taxonomy, morphology, medicinal value and root contents. The present investigation is an efficient attempt of morphological, genetic and phytochemical diversity, field studies and breeding practices. The results from the population survey, morphological variation in field and garden and RAPD analysis can be used in breeding programs. The phytochemical diversity obtained is proving to be an increasingly valuable reservoir of bioactive compounds with significant medicinal value. Conclusively, the studies led with members of genus Chlorophytum will possibly be utilized systematically and appropriately in different conservation strategies and sustainable development.
About the author
Dr. Ajay Sarjerao Nalawade, presently working as 'Assistant Professor' in the Department of Botany, Shri Shahaji Chatrapati Mahavidyalaya, Kolhapur. He has completed Ph. D. Also attended various workshops, seminars, conferences and published research articles in reputed journals.
