Ethnobotanical Uses of Pteridophytes in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

The protected area of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Uttar Pradesh, constituting the core area, spanning 73024.98 hectares, is a rich location for pteridophytes, and the remaining 12745.18 ha forms the buffer zone. A study was undertaken to collect the data on ferns and fern allies from various families. About 38 pteridophyte species have been identified, with the three most abundant groupings being Pteridaceae, Thelypteridaceae, and Ophioglossaceae. According to the study, about 30 types of ferns and their relatives have been used for various purposes, including food, fodder, medicinal use, and beautification of the houses. This study could help identifying useful and endangered species, and help in growing them for better utilization as well as in conservation of endangered plant species.