Abstract
Western ghats (Biodiversity hotspot) of Kerala is abundant in cyanobacterial species diversity. The cyanobacterial genus <i>Nostoc</i> inhabits on natural rock surfaces, thus play an important role in terrestrial ecosystems by colonizing in new and unsettled ecological niches. The abiotic factors like temperature, pH, humidity, micro and macro nutrients contribute to the abundance of <i>Nostoc </i>spp. on the rock surface. <i>Nostoc</i> spp. act as a potential candidates for eco-friendly and sustainable agriculture. Even though, their substantial importance to the environment most of the <i>Nostoc</i> spp. are unexplored, especially from Western ghats region of Kerala. Hence, the present study investigated the diversity of epilithic <i>Nostoc</i> spp. from Western ghats regions of Kerala. A total of 25 epilithic <i>Nostoc</i> spp. were identified in this study. Among the 25 species, <i>Nostoc tibeticum</i> and <i>N. indistinguindem </i>are new records from India.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
