Spatial Distribution and Ethno-botanical Aspect of Edible Plant from Foothill Region of Dhauladhar Range, Kangra Valley, North-Western Himalaya, India

ABSTRACT Traditional medicine is a part of health care practice by local inhabitants residing in the peculiar landscape of the Himalaya. The edible plant species are used to fulfill dietary requirements as well as to cure various ailments. The present study represents the diversity, distribution and ethnobotanical aspect of wild fruit species from the foothill region of Dhauladhar Range, Kangra Valley, northwestern Himalaya, India. Total 37 edible plant species belong to 28 genera and 20 families were noticed, where family Rosaceae, Rutaceae and Muraceae are the most dominant. The GIS-based classification showed a high diversity of the edible plants in the south-eastern part of the study area, while isolated patches in low and high plant diversity reveal the effect of the habitat diversity and regional microclimate. The studies based upon indigenous knowledge are very important for searching for new potential and resource management. The data collected for the potential use and the spatial distribution will provide new insight into modern research for sustainable management of resources.