A model for integrated approach to germplasm conservation of Asian lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.)

Abstract

Asian lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) is one of the most aesthetic ornamental aquatic indigenous species, endowed with unique biological and nutritional traits. The seeds are icon of eternity due to remarkable longevity, known to survive in nature up to 1300 years. Leaves fend off dirt and water by a phenomenon of superhydrophobicity and flowers generate heat by thermoregulation to enhance pollination success. Hence, lotus is an extremely important model system to investigate the process of aging in plants and develop designer seeds with high vigour, viability and longevity. The whole plant is nutritionally rich with great medicinal value. While scientific attention on various aspects ranging from basic botany to genome sequencing in lotus is increasing worldwide, India has somewhat lagged behind in taking due scientific, agronomic and conservation initiatives. At present, the lotus is facing habitat loss because of global environmental change, vanishing of wetlands, over-exploitation from its natural habitat, and lack of concerted management efforts. Possible conservation strategies are proposed with a view to draw the attention of policy makers and stakeholders for prioritizing this species in various biodiversity-related programs of the country, besides promoting it as a potential food and nutraceutical species.