Characterization, Comprehensive Phytochemical Analysis, and Ecological Significance of Two Lichen Species Indigenous to the Shivalik Ranges of Uttarakhand

Abstract

Lichens are composite organisms consisting of fungi and algae, possessing unique secondary metabolites not found in higher plants. These compounds exhibit valuable bioactive properties. This study aimed to collect, identify, and conduct preliminary phytochemical analysis of two lichen species (Parmotrema tinctorum and Parmotrema praesorediosum) from the Shivalik Ranges in Rajaji National Park (Motichur and Phanduwala blocks). Three solvents of increasing polarity (petroleum ether, acetone, and methanol) were used to determine the optimal solvent for revealing the secondary metabolite composition. Voucher specimens were deposited in the LWG herbarium of National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow, for authentication and future reference. Methanol was found to be the most suitable solvent for phytochemical analysis of the identified lichen species. The uses and significance of Parmotrema tinctorum and Parmotrema praesorediosum were documented from literature and through interactions with local residents of the Garhwal region in Uttarakhand.