CONTRIBUTION TO AQUATIC MACROPHYTES OF BIRATNAGAR AND ADJOINING AREAS, EASTERN NEPAL

Abstract

One hundred and fifty three species of aquatic macrophytes (Angiosperms 141, Pteridophytes 8, Bryophytes 2, and Macroalgae 2) were collected from different aquatic habitats of Biratnagar and adjoining areas representing growth forms in the order: hyperhydates (42 species) > tenagophytes (40) > helophytes (36) > vittates (16) > epihydates (9) > pleustophytes (6) > rosulates (4). Emergent species dominated in number over floating and submerged species in all the water bodies. Fifty nine percent of collected species had flowering and fruiting in late rainy season, whereas 21.5 and 14.8% species had flowering and fruiting in winter and summer seasons, respectively. Most of the species had white flowers. Among the collected specimens, 46 species were used as feed for livestock, 20 species were pot-herb (edible), 7 species were used in handicrafts, and 3 species for thatch and cordage. Key words:  Aquatic habitats; Betana pond; Species composition; Growth forms; Human use; Koshi Tappu Wildlife ReserveDOI: 10.3126/eco.v17i0.4101Ecoprint An International Journal of Ecology Vol. 17, 2010 Page: 23-34 Uploaded date: 29 December, 2010