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Study of Plants in Bhagatsingh Garden

The document discusses a study of plants in Bhagatsingh Garden in Ichalkaranji. It focuses on one plant in particular, Agave sisalana, also known as sisal. It describes the sisal plant as having sword-shaped leaves arranged in a rosette, with each plant living 7-10 years and producing 200-250 leaves used for fiber. Sisal fiber has been used for fabrics and paper by various cultures throughout history. The document provides details on the physical characteristics, classification, and historical cultivation of the sisal plant.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
381 views33 pages

Study of Plants in Bhagatsingh Garden

The document discusses a study of plants in Bhagatsingh Garden in Ichalkaranji. It focuses on one plant in particular, Agave sisalana, also known as sisal. It describes the sisal plant as having sword-shaped leaves arranged in a rosette, with each plant living 7-10 years and producing 200-250 leaves used for fiber. Sisal fiber has been used for fabrics and paper by various cultures throughout history. The document provides details on the physical characteristics, classification, and historical cultivation of the sisal plant.

Uploaded by

pkpotter03
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
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D.K.T.E.

society’s
TEXTILE & ENGINEERING INSTITUTE,
ICHALKARANJI
(An Autonomous institute)
DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND
ENGINEERING
(SY DIV-A)

A project report on
STUDY OF PLANTS IN BHAGATSINGH GARDEN
ICHALKARANJI
In the subject of Environmental studies
Submitted by
NAME OF STUDENTS ISO NO
1. ABHISHEK R. BIYANI 21UCS001
2. AISHWARYA A. CHAVAN 21UCS016
3. SMITAL V. DESAI 21UCS022
4. SHREYANSH N. KADAGE 21UCS037
5. PRATIK M. KUMBHAR 21UCS047
UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF

PROF. Dr. V.N. PATIL [Link]. Ph.D.

2022-23
1
DECLARATION

We the undersigned students of S.Y. CSE (div-A) declared that the report
entitled “study of plants in bhagatsingh garden ichalkaranji” written &
submitted under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) V. N. Patil is based on the
data collected by us. The data compiled in this report is not reproduction
from any readymade report submitted for any degree or any other
course and due credits are given to original contributors as and where
necessary.

Date:

Place: Ichalkaranji

Name Signature

1. ABHISHEK R. BIYANI …………………….


2. AISHWARYA A. CHAVAN …………………….
3. SMITAL V. DESAI …………………….
4. SHREYANSH N. KADAGE .……………………
5. PRATIK M. KUMBHAR …………………….

2
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify the project entitled “Study of plants in
Bhagatsingh garden Ichalkaranji” submitted by Abhishek R.
Biyani, Aishwarya A. Chavan, Smital V. Desai, Shreyansh N.
Kadage, Pratik M. Kumbhar for the partial fulfillment of [Link]
Computer Science Engineering in the subject of Environmental
studies as a U.G.C. compulsory course for undergraduate classes
has been completed and submitted in academic year 2022-23.

Project Supervisor Head of the department

Prof. (Dr.) V.N. Patil Prof. (Dr.) V. R. Naik

Principal

Prof. (Dr.) P. V. Kadole


Date :
Place : Ichalkaranji

3
INDEX

Sr. No Title Page no.


1. Introduction and Methodology 5

2. Agave Sisalana 8

3. Acalypha Hispida 12

4. Thevetia Peruviana 15

5. Azadirachta Indica 18

6. Ravenala Madagascariensis Sonn 22

7. Viburnum 25

8. Nelumno Nucifera 28

9. Summary and Conclusion 32

10. Bibliography (Reference) 33

4
INTRODUCTION AND METHODOGY

ENVIRONMENT POLLUTION:

Since the human species first became fully conscious of the natural
world, nature has usually seen & assembles & abundant with land and
animal life from mountains to the oceans to plateaus and grasslands
over the course of the twentieth century, however these view has
changed mans power over nature assisted by machines has grown, and
human populations has increased exponentially. For a centuries
measure has been retreat in phase of human settlement; but in the last
15 years destruction of the natural word has picked up speed has never
before.

Scientist believes that when human development and agriculture


reduce the natural world, the loss is not simply a matter of size. The
remaining natural areas it is believed harbor much fewer species and
complex ecosystems. Scientist have reveled that many world species
are now increasingly becoming extinct, and this extinction of wild
species, many of them still unknown or not well understood, will
threaten the future of planet.

Since beginning of agriculture, human survival has been based on the


mestication for food purpose of wild plants and animals. Yet many
wild species of the pant are continuously destroyed in wild, before
their food medicinal Value can be assessed. The continuation of wild
or partially wild varieties of plants is necessary to the future health of
domesticated verities.

In additional, whole ecosystem, such as reverie estuaries, coral reefs,


montane forest, and the creatures that live in them are under great.
5
stress due to human caused population, exploitation or
overdevelopment. Yet these ecosystems in all their marvelous
complexity, clean pollutant from water provide the fresh air we
breathe, and we produce much of our food, making human existence
possible. In effect, the vast web of biological diversity, with its
millions of species on the planet is what has made human survival
possible and human life fulfilling.

DEFINITION:

Earth is known to be the only living planet due to the life it supports
"Biodiversity" or "biological diversity" is refereed to the vast range
life forms, from simple microscopic, unicellular to the evolved,
complex and multi cellular form on earth. These include all the living
organism that is millions of pant, animals and micro organisms. The
biodiversity described in three levels.

GENETIC DIVERSITY:

This is the diversity represent in the organism in the basis hereditary


information units "Genus" within species, which are passed down to
the generations. Genetic diversity results in variation. The diversity
gives rise to different "varieties" of rice or other crops. A large
number of varieties in the species can be seen or sensed by color, test,
the flavor but most are invisible such as dieses resistance, th e
behavioral pattern etc. genetic diversity is important breeding crops
live stock.

SPECIES DIVERSITY:`

Species is genetically isolated unit of organism, which is used to


classify raillions of different plant and animal forms on the earth. As
6
each species distinct from other species in the form and character such
as cow and goat on the similar species can produce fertile offspring.
Species diversity is measured in terms of species within a given area.
Species diversity is the most common level to describe biodiversity of
any given area. Based on this level of diversity some countries like
India are included in "mega-diversity" countries.

ECOSYSTEM DIVERSITY:

Ecosystem concept includes living organisms (plants, animals, micro


aims) and non-living things (air, soil, water, mineral etc.) in a given
area with exchange of material and interaction betweenthem. System
diversity is therefore the diversity of "habitat.

REPORTING:

For reporting we visit Bhagatsingh Garden in Ichalkaranji to study the


plants There are many plants we choose some different plants out of
them

7
AGAVE SISALANA

Botanical name : Agave sisalana.

Description :
Sisal plants consist of a rosette of sword-shaped leaves
about 1.5 to 2 m (4 ft 11 in to 6 ft 7 in) tall. Young leaves may
have a few minute teeth along their margins, but lose them as they
mature.

The sisal plant has a 7- to 10-year lifespan and typically produces


200–250 commercially usable leaves. Each leaf contains around
1000 fibres. The fibres account for only about 4% of the plant by
weight. Sisal is considered a plant of the tropics and subtropics,
8
since production benefits from temperatures above 25 °C (77 °F)
and sunshine.
Sisal was used by the Aztecs and the Mayans to make fabrics and
paper.

In the 19th century, sisal cultivation spread to Florida, the


Caribbean islands, and Brazil (Paraiba and Bahia), as well as to
countries in Africa, notably Tanzania and Kenya, and Asia. Sisal
reportedly “came to Africa from Florida, through the mechanism of
a remarkable German botanist, by the name of Hindorf.”
In Cuba, its cultivation was introduced in 1880, by Fernando
Heydrich in Matanzas.
The first commercial plantings in Brazil were made in the late
1930s, and the first sisal fibre exports from there were made in
1948. Brazilian production did not accelerate until the 1960s, and
the first of many spinning mills was established. Today, Brazil is
the major world producer of sisal. Both positive and negative
environmental impacts arise from sisal growing.
Physical Characteristics
icon of manicon of flower
Agave sisalana is an evergreen Perennial growing to 2 m (6ft) by 2
m (6ft) at a fast rate.
See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is
frost tender.
Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils,
prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.
Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

9
It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers
dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Scientific classification :

Kingdom Plantae
Clade Tracheophytes
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Monocots
Order Asparagales
Family Asparagaceae
Subfamily Agavoideae
Genus Agave
Species A. sisalana
Binomial name Agave sisalana Perrine

Environmental impacts:
Sisal farming initially caused environmental degradation, because
sisal plantations replaced native forests, but is still considered less
damaging than many types of farming. No chemical fertilizers are
used in sisal production, and although herbicides are occasionally
used, even this impact may be eliminated, since most weeding is
done by hand. The effluent from the decortication process causes
serious pollution when it is allowed to flow into watercourses.
Sisal is considered to be an invasive species in Hawaii and Florida.
10
Uses :
Traditionally, sisal has been the leading material for agricultural
twine (binder twine and baler twine) because of its strength,
durability, ability to stretch, affinity for certain dyestuffs, and
resistance to deterioration in saltwater. The importance of this
traditional use is diminishing with competition from polypropylene
and the development of other haymaking techniques, while new
higher-valued sisal products have been developed.
Apart from ropes, twines, and general cordage, sisal is used in low-
cost and specialty paper, dartboards, buffing cloth, filters,
geotextiles, mattresses, carpets, handicrafts, wire rope cores, and
macramé. Sisal has been used as an environmentally friendly
strengthening agent to replace asbestos and fibreglass in composite
materials in various uses including the automobile industry. The
lower-grade fibre is processed by the paper industry because of its
high content of cellulose and hemicelluloses. The medium-grade
fibre is used in the cordage industry for making ropes and baler and
binder twine. Ropes and twines are widely employed for marine,
agricultural, and general industrial use. The higher-grade fibre after
treatment is converted into yarns and used by the carpet industry.

11
ACALYPHA HISPIDA

Botanical Name : Acalypha hispida


Description:
It can grow to be 5–12 feet (1.5–3.7 m) tall, and have a spread of
3–6 feet (0.91–1.83 m), with potted plants being the smallest in
[Link] plant has become somewhat domesticated, due to the
nature and color of its flowers. It can be grown from seeds as well
as from cuttings. It can be kept either as an outdoor plant or as a
houseplant.

The plant is dioecious, and therefore there are distinct male and
female members of the species. The female plant bears pistillate
flowers which are 0.7 millimeters long and range in color from
purple to bright red, and grow in clusters along catkins that catkins
can grow up to fifty centimeters (19.5 inches) or more in
[Link] feature is the primary reason the plant bears the
nickname “red-hot cat tail”. The pistillates will grow all year long
as long as the temperatures are favorable. The leaves are large,
oval and bright green to reddish copper.

12
Scientific classification:

Kingdom Plantae
Clade Tracheophytes
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Eudicots
Clade Rosids
Order Malpighiales
Family Euphorbiaceae
Genus Acalypha
Species A. hispida
Binomial name Acalypha hispida

Characteristics:
Acalypha hispida, commonly called chenille plant, is a beautiful
flowering plant that has a long bloom period. The flowers, which
droop in cattail-like pendent clusters up to 18 inches in length are
bright red to deep pink. In zones 10 to 11 it is a vigorous, upright,
coarse-textured shrub that usually attains a height of 5 to 6 feet that
is commonly used as an accent, hedge, specimen or container
plant. In St. Louis, it is a good container, hanging basket and
greenhouse plant, when taken indoors in the fall. Its long period of
bloom makes it a showy centerpiece for any tropical or subtropical
garden. It features leaves that are 6 to 8 inches long, ovate and
medium green.
Genus name comes from the Greek name for nettles because of the
nettle-like appearance of the leaves.

13
Specific epithet means bristly in probable reference to the bristly
nature of the leaves. Another common name for this species is
bristly copperleaf.

Common names:
Acalypha hispida is also known as Philippine medusa and red hot
cat tail in English. It is cultivated as a house plant because of its
attractiveness and brilliantly colored, furry flowers.
The Latin specific epithet hispida means “bristly”, referring to the
pendent flowers which vaguely resemble brushes.

Cultivation:
When grown as a house plant, it needs bright light but not direct
sunlight, and requires high humidity and a temperature of at least
61 °F (16 °C). It should be grown in a loose potting soil, rich in
organic matter and sand, and must be kept well-watered during the
spring and summer. Watering should be reduced somewhat in fall
and winter. It is typically propagated from cuttings.

Uses:
In St. Louis, grow in containers or baskets on decks, patios or
rooftop gardens. It is a good plant for color and should be used as
an accent for both color and texture in a container. Or, it can be
grown year-round in a greenhouse or sun room giving the area a
tropical feel.

14
THEVETIA PERUVIANA

Botanical Name : Thevetia peruviana.


Description:
Cascabela thevetia is an evergreen tropical shrub or small tree. Its
leaves are willow-like, linear-lanceolate, and glossy green in color.
They are covered in waxy coating to reduce water loss (typical of
oleanders). Its stem is green turning silver/gray as it [Link]
bloom from summer to fall. The long funnel-shaped sometimes-
fragrant yellow (less commonly apricot, sometimes white) flowers
are in few-flowered terminal clusters. Its fruit is deep red-black in
color encasing a large seed that bears some resemblance to a
'Chinese lucky nut.'[clarification needed]

15
Leaves and buds of yellow oleander (Cascabela thevetia) in
Domjur, West Bengal, India.
Cascabela thevetia is commonly known as Kaneir or Kaner (कनेर)
in Hindi language in India. It is effectively drought resistant and
tolerant to high temperatures, hence found in various states of India
like Andhra, Bihar, Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana,
West Bengal, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh , Odisha and
Assam where semi arid climate is prevalent.
Scientific classification:

Kingdom Plantae
Clade Tracheophytes
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Eudicots
Clade Asterids
Order Gentianales
Family Apocynaceae
Genus Cascabela
Species C. thevetia
Binomial name Thevetia peruviana.

Cultivation:
Cascabela thevetia is cultivated as an ornamental plant, and planted as
large flowering shrub or small ornamental tree standards in gardens
and parks in temperate climates. In frost prone areas it is container
plant, in the winter season brought inside a greenhouse or as a house
plant. It tolerates most soils and is drought tolerant.
16
Biological pest control:
The plant's toxins have tested in experiments for uses in biological pest
control. T. peruviana seed oil was used to make a 'paint' with
antifungal, antibacterial and anti-termite properties.
Common names:
Yellow oleander, be still tree, digoxin, lucky nut, Nerium oleander,
yellow bells
Uses:
Thevetia peruviana is widely grown as a garden ornamental. It is also
used medicinally to some extent, though it is also known to be very
poisonous. This uses cannot compensate for this plant's overall
negative impacts.

17
AZADIRACHTA INDICA

Botanical Name : Azadirachta Indica


Description:
Neem is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 15–20
metres (49–66 ft), and rarely 35–40 m (115–131 ft). It is evergreen,
shedding many of its leaves during the dry winter months. The
branches are wide and spreading. The fairly dense crown is
roundish and may reach a diameter of 20–25 m (66–82 ft). The
opposite, pinnate leaves are 20–40 cm (8–16 in) long, with 20 to 30
medium to dark green leaflets about 3–8 cm (1+1⁄4–3+1⁄4 in) long.
The terminal leaflet often is missing. The petioles are short.
White and fragrant flowers are arranged in more-or-less
drooping axillary panicles which are up to 25 cm (10 in) long.
The inflorescences, which branch up to the third degree, bear from
250 to 300 flowers. An individual flower is 5–6 mm (3⁄16–1⁄4 in)

18
long and 8–11 mm (5⁄16–7⁄16 in) wide. Protandrous, bisexual flowers
and male flowers exist on the same individual tree.
The fruit is a smooth (glabrous), olive-like drupe which varies in
shape from elongate oval to nearly roundish, and when ripe is 14–
28 mm (1⁄2–1+1⁄8 in) by 10–15 mm (3⁄8–5⁄8 in). The fruit skin
(exocarp) is thin and the bitter-sweet pulp (mesocarp) is yellowish-
white and very fibrous. The mesocarp is 3–5 mm (1⁄8–1⁄4 in) thick.
The white, hard inner shell (endocarp) of the fruit encloses one,
rarely two, or three, elongated seeds (kernels) having a brown seed
coat.
Scientific classification:

Kingdom Plantae
Clade Tracheophytes
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Eudicots
Clade Rosids
Order Sapindales
Family Meliaceae
Genus Azadirachta
Species A. Indica
Binomial name Azadirachta Indica

Cultivation:
The rate of growth of Neem in plantation varies with the quality of soil. It
is fairly rapid upto the age of 5 years after which it slows down. The plant
attains a height of 4 m at 5 years and 10 m at 25 years. The mean annual
19
girth increment is 2.3-3.0 cm. More rapid growth is attained under
favourable conditions. In Karnataka naturally grown Neem trees of 10
years age give an average height of 6.58 m and girth of 68.1 cm. In
alkaline soils of U.P., Neem attains an average height of 170 cm at the end
of first season and 264 cm at second season. Seven month old root suckers
give the average height of 65.7 cm. Because of its international
importance, there have been many provenance trials at several places. In
1993, the first international consultation on Neem was held in Bangkok
where a panel was formed to aid and co-ordinate the work for genetic
improvement of Neem.

Common Name:
It has been given the name "traveller's palm" because the sheaths of
the stems hold rainwater, which supposedly could be used as an
emergency drinking supply for needy travellers. Another plausible
reason for its name is that the fan tends to grow on an east–west
line, providing a crude compass.
The scientific name Ravenala comes from Malagasy ravinala or
ravina ala meaning "forest leaves".
Uses:
The tender shoots and flowers of the neem tree are eaten as a
vegetable in India. A soup-like dish called veppampoo
charu in Tamil (translated as "neem flower rasam") made of the
flower of neem is prepared in Tamil Nadu. In Bengal, young neem
leaves are fried in oil with tiny pieces of eggplant (brinjal). The dish
is called neem begun bhaja and is the first item during a Bengali meal
that acts as an appetizer. It is eaten with rice.
Products made from neem trees have been used in the traditional
medicine of India for centuries, for treating skin troubles
20
and rheumatism, but there is insufficient clinical evidence to indicate
any benefits of using neem for medicinal purposes. In adults, no
specific doses have been established, and short-term use of neem
appears to be safe, while long-term use may harm the kidneys or liver;
in small children, neem oil is toxic and can lead to death.

21
RAVENALA MADAGASCARIENSIS SONN.

Botanical Name : Ravenala madagascariensis Sonn.


Description:
The enormous paddle-shaped leaves are borne on long petioles, in
a distinctive fan shape aligned in a single plane (distichous). The
large white flowers are structurally similar to those of its relatives,
the bird-of-paradise flowers Strelitzia reginae and Strelitzia nicolai,
but are generally considered less attractive, with a green bract.[8]
These flowers, upon being pollinated, produce brilliant blue seeds.
In tropical and subtropical regions, the plant is widely cultivated
for its distinctive habit and foliage.
As the plant grows older, it progressively loses the lowest or oldest
leaves and reveals a sturdy grey trunk. Of the four forms, varieties
or subspecies, the largest is the "Bemavo", from the hills of eastern
Madagascar, which can be 100 feet (30 metres) in height with a

22
trunk 2 feet (60 cm) [Link] foliar fan consists of 20 to 35 leaves,
each as much as 36 feet (11 metres) in length.
Scientific classification:

Kingdom Plantae
Clade Tracheophytes
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Monocots
Clade Commelinids
Order Zingiberales
Family Strelitziaceae
Genus Ravenala
Species [Link]
Binomial name Ravenala
madagascariensis sonn

Cultivation:
The plant requires a sunny spot (not full sun until it is larger). It
responds well to fertiliser, especially if it is high in nitrogen during the
growing season. This produces better growth and foliage. The plant
grows to an average height of 7 m (23 ft) and requires moderate
water.

23
Common Name:
It has been given the name "traveller's palm" because the sheaths of
the stems hold rainwater, which supposedly could be used as an
emergency drinking supply for needy travellers. Another plausible
reason for its name is that the fan tends to grow on an east–west
line, providing a crude compass.
The scientific name Ravenala comes from Malagasy ravinala or
ravina ala meaning "forest leaves".
Uses:
The traveller’s palm is very commonly planted for ornamental
purposes. The leaves are arranged into 2 rows, giving the
impression of a gigantic fan. The vernacular names are an
indication of the alleged use by travellers, who are said to have
drunk rain water accumulated in the basal cup of the petiole and in
the flower bracts. However, this water is often rendered
undrinkable by infestation with mosquito larvae and contamination
by detritus.
Ravenala madagascariensis is economically important locally along
the east coast of Madagascar, where the leaves are used for roofing,
the petioles for walls and the bark for floors in houses. In parts of
India, the stem is used in house construction, the leaves for packing
material and for roofing, and the midribs and petioles for hut walls.
Sugar can be extracted from the sap of the trunk. The seeds are
edible, but mealy, and the edible arils are tasteless. The seed oil is
sometimes used for cooking, and is reported to be antiseptic. The
pith from the trunk is sometimes used as a fodder for livestock.

24
Viburnum

Botanical Name : Viburnum Opulus.


Description:
The leaves are opposite, simple, and entire, toothed or lobed; cool
temperate species are deciduous, while most of the warm temperate
species are evergreen. Some species are densely hairy on the shoots
and leaves, with star-shaped hairs.
The flowers are produced in corymbs 5–15 cm across, each flower
white to cream or pink, small, 3–5 mm across, with five petals,
strongly fragrant in some species. The gynoecium has three
connate carpels with the nectary on top of the gynoecium. Some
species also have a fringe of large, showy sterile flowers around
the perimeter of the corymb to act as a pollinator target.
The fruit is a spherical, oval, or somewhat flattened drupe, red to
purple, blue, or black, and containing a single seed; some are
25
edible for humans, but many others are mildly poisonous. The
leaves are eaten by the larvae of many Lepidoptera species.
Birds eat the berries of Viburnum obovatum (also called Walter
Viburnum after Thomas Walter).
Scientific classification:

Kingdom Plantae
Clade Tracheophytes
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Eudicots
Clade Asterids
Order Dipsacales
Family Adoxaceae
Genus Viburnum
Species Burkwood Viburnum
Binomial name Viburnum

Cultivation:
Many species of viburnum have become popular
as garden or landscape plants because of their showy flowers and
berries, fragrance, and good autumn colour of some forms.

26
Common Name:
Viburnum opulus, commonly called European cranberry bush, is
a highbush cranberry that is native to Europe, Asia and N. Africa.
It is a deciduous shrub with a rounded spreading habit that
typically grows to 10-15’ tall. It features lacecap-type white
flowers in spring in flat-topped 3” wide cymes of tiny fertile florets
surrounded by larger sterile florets, drooping clusters of cranberry-
like red berries (drupes) in fall and three lobed, maple-like, dark
green leaves. The berries (drupes) are technically edible, but are
very bitter in taste and are not recommended for eating fresh off
the shrub. Fruits tend to shrivel after frost. Foliage turns a
sometimes attractive purplish red in fall. This plant has escaped
gardens and naturalized in parts of the northeastern and
Midwestern U.S. north into Canada.
Uses:
In prehistory, the long, straight shoots of some viburnums were used
for arrow-shafts, as those found with Ötzi the Iceman.
The fruit of some species (e.g. V. lentago) are edible and can be eaten
either raw or for making jam, while other species (e.g. V. opulus) are
mildly toxic and can cause vomiting if eaten in quantity.
The bark of some species is used in herbal medicine, as
an antispasmodic and to treat asthma.

27
Nelumbo Nucifera

Botanical Name : Nelumbo Nucifera


Description:
Nelumbo nucifera, also known as sacred lotus, Laxmi
lotus, Indian lotus, or simply lotus, is one of two extant species of
aquatic plant in the family Nelumbonaceae. It is sometimes
colloquially called a water lily, though this more often refers to
members of the family Nymphaeaceae.
Lotus plants are adapted to grow in the flood plains of slow-
moving rivers and delta areas. Stands of lotus drop hundreds of
thousands of seeds every year to the bottom of the pond. While
some sprout immediately, and most are eaten by wildlife, the
remaining seeds can remain dormant for an extensive period of
time as the pond silts in and dries out. During flood conditions,
sediments containing these seeds are broken open, and the dormant
seeds rehydrate and begin a new lotus colony.
Under favorable circumstances, the seeds of this aquatic perennial
may remain viable for many years, with the oldest recorded lotus
28
germination being from seeds 1,300 years old recovered from a dry
lakebed in northeastern China. Therefore, the Chinese regard the
plant as a symbol of longevity.
Scientific classification:

Kingdom Plantae
Clade Tracheophytes
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Eudicots
Order Proteales
Family Nelumbonaceae
Genus Nelumbo
Species N. Nucifera
Binomial name Nelumbo Nucifera

Cultivation:
The sacred lotus grows in water up to 2.5 m (8 ft) deep. The minimum
water depth is about 30 cm (12 in). In colder climates, having a deeper
water level protects the tubers more effectively, and overall is helpful
for better growth and flowering. The sacred lotus germinates at
temperatures above 13 °C (55 °F). Most varieties are not naturally
cold-hardy, but may readily adapt to living outdoors year-round in
USDA hardiness zones 6 through 11 (with some growers having
success in zones as low as 4 or 5); the higher the zone’s number, the
greater the adaptability of the plants. In the growing season, from
April to September (in the northern hemisphere), the average daytime
temperature needed is 23 to 27 °C (73 to 81 °F). In regions with low
29
light levels in winter, the sacred lotus has a period of dormancy.
The tubers are not cold-resistant, if removed from water, and exposed
to the air; when kept underwater in soil, the energy-rich tubers can
overwinter temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F). If the plants are taken
out of the water for wintertime storage (mostly in exceptionally cold
climates), the tubers and roots must be stored in a stable, frost-free
location, such as a garage, preferably in a cardboard box or container
filled completely with vermiculite or perlite. Care must be taken to
fully insulate the tubers.

Common Name:
The lotus is often confused with the true water lilies of the
genus Nymphaea, in particular N. caerulea, the "blue lotus." In fact,
several older systems, such as the Bentham & Hooker system (which
is widely used in the Indian subcontinent) refer to the lotus by its old
synonym of Nymphaea nelumbo.

Uses:
The rhizomes of lotus are consumed as a vegetable in Asian countries,
extensively in China, Japan, and India, sold whole or in cut pieces,
fresh, frozen, or canned. They are fried or cooked mostly in soups,
soaked in syrup or pickled in vinegar (with sugar, chili and
garlic). Lotus rhizomes have a crunchy texture and are a classic dish
at many banquets, where they are deep-fried, stir-fried, or stuffed with
meats or preserved fruits. Salads with prawns, sesame
oil or coriander leaves are also popular. Fresh lotus root slices are
limited by a fast browning rate. Lotus root tea is consumed in Korea.

30
Lotus root is a popular vegetable in Sri Lanka, where it is often
cooked in coconut milk gravy. In India, lotus root (also known
as kamal kakdi) is cooked as a dry curry or sabzi.

31
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

Air is one of the essential components of the life. For survival of life it
is important that the air pollution due to varies pollutants adversely
affecting human, animal & plant life must be avoided at any cost.
Change in the natural quality & composition of the air due to presence
of various polluting factor, which are responsible to cause adverse
effect on living organisms existing on earth. Sources of air pollution
like volcanic eruption, decomposition of organic wastes, pollens of
flowering plants & weeds, microorganisms, vehicles, industrial
processes are responsible for air pollution.

Effects of air pollution on human being due to the toxic gases causes
problems like irritation of eyes, respiration dieses & reduction in
oxygen carrying capacity of blood by formation of carboxyl
hemoglobin.

One of the control measures is "plantation". Plantation should

be done around the industrial area so that ecological balance is


maintained. Other activity is to prepare the gardens in different areas
so that fresh air is easily available for breathing and for maintaining
healthy atmosphere conditions. Plantation should be done at the road
dividers &both the sides of road so that pollution due to automobiles
can be minimized.

Plantation programmers should be arranged by social Committees,


educational societies & mainly by the Municipal Corporation.
Municipal Corporation should follow the rules & regulation regarding
pollution, which put forth by the Indian govt. public awareness &
people's participation is essential. Arranging the different
programmers 'pollution control' can do this.
32
BIBLIOGRAPHY (REFERENCE)

1. Agarwal K.C.2001, Environmental Biology, Nidi Publ. Ltd., Bikaner

[Link] [Link]. Environmental science. WadsworthPublishing Co. (TB)

3. Sharma B.K. 2001. Environmental Chemistry Goel. Pub. House,


Meerut.

4. Wagner K.D. 1998, Environmental


Management,[Link] USA 499p.

5. Paryavaran Vighyan -[Link]- NiraliPrakashan, Pune.

6. Environmental Studies - Dr. P. D. Raut, [Link] Dept. Shivaji


University, Kolhapur.

7. Wikipedia.

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Common questions

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Viburnum opulus is characterized by opposite, simple leaves that are either toothed or lobed, with flowers in corymbs featuring five petals and a strong fragrance. Cool temperate species are deciduous, while warm temperate ones are evergreen. The species diversity within Viburnum exemplifies broader biodiversity concepts by illustrating genetic variation (e.g., leaf structure, fragrance potency) and ecological adaptation to different climates, reflecting the complex interplay of genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity that sustains biodiversity as a whole .

Azadirachta indica, or neem, plays significant economic roles by providing materials for traditional medicine, such as treatments for skin issues and rheumatism. Economically valuable in agriculture, neem products are used as natural pesticides, owing to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, reducing reliance on chemicals. Ecologically, neem contributes to biodiversity and provides multiple ecosystem services. Its rapid growth aids soil stabilization and reforestation efforts, while its leaves are utilized in local dietary practices, showcasing its integration into cultural and environmental contexts .

Agave sisalana cultivation initially causes environmental degradation due to the replacement of native forests with sisal plantations. This species can also be invasive, as seen in Hawaii and Florida. However, environmental damage is considered less severe than other farming types because no chemical fertilizers are used, and although herbicides are sometimes applied, weeding is mainly manual. Uses of Agave sisalana include its fibers, which are traditionally used for agricultural twine like binder and baler twine .

The introduction and spread of sisal cultivation initially caused environmental degradation by replacing native forests, with notable regions affected including Florida, the Caribbean, Africa, and Brazil. However, sisal farming is less damaging than many other agricultural practices because of the absence of chemical fertilizers and the predominance of manual weeding. Despite causing pollution when decortication effluent enters watercourses, efforts to minimize herbicide use and the selection of degraded lands for cultivation have mitigated its environmental impacts. Sisal's historical use by Aztec and Mayan cultures for fabrics and paper processing reflects its longstanding agricultural adaptation .

Reducing biodiversity leads to smaller sizes and less complex ecosystems, resulting in more species becoming extinct, which poses a threat to the planet's future as many of these species are not fully understood. Genetic diversity, which refers to the variation in hereditary information within species, contributes to species survival by creating different varieties with traits like disease resistance, which are crucial for breeding and adaptation to environmental changes. This diversity is essential for the continuous health and improvement of domesticated species .

Ecosystems such as coral reefs and river estuaries play a critical role in maintaining environmental balance by cleaning pollutants from water, providing fresh air, and supporting food production, which are essential for human survival. These ecosystems, in their complexity, contribute significantly to the vast biological diversity necessary for sustaining life on Earth. They mitigate the impact of human activities such as pollution and overdevelopment, ensuring the continuation of various species and maintaining the functionality of global ecological systems .

Neem trees grow rapidly in the first five years, especially under favorable soil conditions, achieving heights of 4 meters at age 5 and reaching up to 10 meters by age 25. Traditional uses of neem trees include the consumption of tender shoots and flowers as vegetables in India, preparation of neem flower rasam in Tamil Nadu, and use in Bengal where fried leaves are an appetizer. Neem products have been used in traditional Indian medicine for skin issues and rheumatism, although there is insufficient evidence for these uses. Long-term use may harm the kidneys or liver, and neem oil is toxic to children .

Thevetia peruviana is cultivated ornamentally and has been experimented with for biological pest control, utilizing its toxins. Despite its traditional medicinal uses, these cannot mitigate its overall negative impacts as it is highly poisonous, posing health risks. The plant's toxicity restricts safe handling and usage, often outweighing potential benefits. While it serves as a visual enhancement in landscaping, its hazards necessitate careful management and limit wider acceptance beyond ornamental purposes .

Ravenala madagascariensis, commonly known as the traveler's palm, serves ornamental purposes due to its large, distinctive fan-shaped leaves and impressive height. Practically, it provides rainwater for travelers, although this water is often contaminated. Economically, along Madagascar's east coast, its leaves are used for roofing, petioles for walls, and bark for floors. In India, the stem serves in house construction, leaves for packing and roofing, and sap sugar extraction. The seeds are edible but mealy, and the seed oil, sometimes used for cooking, has antiseptic properties .

Human activities such as population growth, exploitation, and overdevelopment introduce significant stress on ecosystems, including river estuaries and coral reefs. These activities degrade habitats, reduce biodiversity, and disrupt ecological functions vital to human survival, like water purification and air provision. Maintaining biodiversity is crucial because it underpins resilience against environmental changes and supports ecosystem services that directly impact food security, health, and the quality of life. Biodiversity ensures ecosystem stability and adaptability, making it indispensable for human survival .

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