M. J. M. KHATUN1*, M. MAHFUZUR RAHMA1, M. A. RAHIM2 and M. H. MIRDAH3
1Department of Botany, Jahangirnagar University, Saver, Dhaka, 2Department of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh and 3Department of Agricultural Extension, Khamarbari, Dhaka, Bangladesh. *Corresponding author’s Email: jannatmahbuba75@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted at the Plant Ecology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka and Germplasm Centre, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Data were collected from phytogeographical region in Khagrachari district of Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh during January, 2011 to September, 2013. Cross-sections of ethnic group people live in the hilly regions of Bangladesh and their livelihood is directly and indirectly dependent on forest and forest resources. Along with different food items, they traditionally use different ethnic fruits. Lalgula (Haematocarpus validus) is a very promising ethnic fruit plant recorded to grow in the remote areas of Chittagong Hill Tracts and it is endemic in these natural habitats. Lalgula is an evergreen perennial dioecious creeping woody climber belonging to the family Menispermaceae. Fruits are slightly acidic sweet taste. A detail study on the taxonomy and nutritional status of this fruit was conducted to popularize this ethnic fruit. Further experiments and trials on mass propagation and cultivation have been going on in a view to release it commercially which will help us to substitute fruit supply and ensure food security as well.
Keywords: Lalgula, Taxonomy, Nutritional status and Ethnic fruit.