RESUMO
The tribal communities from different parts of the world depend on the wild plants and plant parts to fulfill their dietary needs. They have developed a unique knowledge of plant utilization. The present study aims to document the information about wild vegetables used by Muthuvan tribes of Idukki district of Kerala state. The information was gathered through intensive field surveys conducted during 2010 December to 2012 February. Around 40 plant species belonging to 32 genera and 19 families were recorded. Among them 70% species contribute to vegetables by their leaf and stem, 18 % by fruit, 8% by tubers, 2% by corm and 2% by calyx. Documented wild plants are also reported to be in existence even during adverse conditions like drought. The report of this study would help to preserve the indigenous knowledge on wild vegetables used by Muthuvans for their sustainable utilization and conservation.
RESUMO
Aqueous leaf extracts of two plants namely Gnidia glauca Gilg. and Toddalia asiatica Lam., have been screened for their antifeedant activity against the sixth instar larvae of Helicoverpa armigera (Hbn) by applying the aqueous leaf extracts at various concentrations viz., 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 percent on young tomato leaves. The larval mortality of more than 50 percent at higher concentrations (0.8 and 1.0 percent) was observed in the aqueous extracts. Among the two aqueous leaf extracts tested, T. asiatica was found to show higher rate of mortality (86.1%) at 1.0 percent concentration. A reduction in the rate of food consumption and growth was observed in the larvae of H. armigera after 48 hours of treatments in both the aqueous extracts. Since this insect pest species have developed resistance and resurgence to synthetic insecticides, the only alternate is the usage of bio-pesticides for they are eco-friendly, pollution free and easily degradable.