A checklist of traditional edible bio-resources from Ima markets of Imphal Valley, Manipur, India

Oinam Sunanda Devi,Puspa Komor,Dhritiman Das

doi:10.11609/jott.o2256.1291-6

Abstract

A study was conducted at seven important markets of Imphal Valley, Manipur in northeastern India, which are run exclusively by women and are popularly known as “the Ima markets”. The two year study was to find out the important edible bio-resources which are consumed daily by the local people of Manipur. Regular surveys were conducted at the selected markets at least three times a month. A total of 45 wild edible plants and 26 wild fruits were identified during the survey. Also, 25 edible animal resources were recorded. It is suggested that the high diversity of wild edible bio-resources needs to be conserved for livelihood sustenance of the local communities.

Highlights

Manipur forms a distinctive part of Indo-Burma inhabited by various ethnic groups and communities possessing varied cultures and traditions (Singh et al 1996)
From time immemorial, the indigenous local inhabitants of Manipur have had a wide knowledge about the uses of traditional bio-resources, either as food or medicine in their day-to-day life (Khumbongmayum et al 2004)
A total of 45 wild edible plants, 26 wild fruit varieties and 25 edible animal bio-resources were recorded, all of which form an important part in the diet of the local Manipuri people

Summary

Introduction

Manipur forms a distinctive part of Indo-Burma inhabited by various ethnic groups and communities possessing varied cultures and traditions (Singh et al 1996). The terrain of the state is predominantly hilly (92%), except for a broad alluvial valley, called the

Methods

Results

Conclusion