Melocanninae - thin-walled bamboos as green assets: diversity, utilization, and conservation for sustainable ecosystems

Melocanninae, the thin-walled tropical bamboo subtribe of tribe Bambuseae, holds significant ecological and socioeconomic value. The subtribe is mainly concentrated in the Asian continent, in South Asia, Southeast Asia and East Asia. Even with their immense ecological, economic and cultural significance, they are seldom cultivated. Traditional uses of the species within this subtribe are better known and documented than their modern uses. The review aims to compile the existing knowledge on the subtribe Melocanninae with an emphasis on taxonomy, material properties and their ecological and socioeconomic roles. A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases. Flora and herbarium records were reviewed to synthesize a holistic overview of the current status and future prospects of the subtribe. The review synthesizes current knowledge on the diversity and distribution of Melocanninae species, along with their anatomical, mechanical, and chemical properties that make them suitable for various traditional and emerging applications. The study also highlights their importance in traditional and cultural practices and rural livelihoods. Recent flowering events and existing propagation methods are also highlighted. Key challenges, such as habitat degradation and overexploitation, are identified, and potential strategies for sustainable management are outlined. The review emphasizes the versatility of the members of subtribe Melocanninae as sustainable natural resources and highlights the need for focused research and conservation strategies to enhance their utilization and long-term management.