Macrophytes and their ecosystem services from natural ponds in Cachar district, Assam, India

Abstract

The present study deals with the macrophytes of four natural ponds near Barambaba temple in Cachar district of Assam, North-East India and uses. A total of 45 species of macrophytes belonging to 24 families were recorded. Emergent growth forms were most dominant. Their ecosystem services as medicinal (26%), livestock fodder (22%), vegetables (15%), fish food (10%), decoration (9%), religious (7%), herbal (3%), poultry feed (2%), insect repellent (2%), fencing (2%), fuel (1%) and organic farming (1%) have been recorded. The judicious management of rich diversity of macrophytes and their uses can promote sustainable utilization of aquatic plants in this region.