A study on epiphytic lichens from prunus persica

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to explore and identify the epiphytic lichens on the tree bark of Prunus persica from Kodaikanal area and analyze its phytochemical properties. Methods: Samples were collected from Kodaikanal area, identified by morphological and chemical constituents. Macromolecules present were quantified by DNS method, Lowry’s method, and lipid tests. The secondary metabolites present were analyzed by standard phytochemical tests and thin-layer chromatography. Results and Conclusion: It was interesting to observe that species belonging to the lichen genera - Parmotrema, Ramalina, and Usnea dominated the area. The samples have been identified and deposited in LWG herbarium, NBRI, Lucknow. As lichens form an ideal model to study the humongous secondary metabolites present in it, a preliminary investigation was performed to understand the nutritive value as well as phytochemicals present in the lichens. The results indicate that these organisms can be of potential medicinal value with Ramalina and Usnea species contributing good amount of macronutrients present in them, while qualitative analysis of phytochemicals reports all the lichens for enormous metabolites.