Diversity, Traditional Utilization and Conservation of Wild Edible Plants among Indigenous Communities of the Melghat Region, Maharashtra, India

Melghat region of Maharashtra, India, situated in the biodiversity-rich Satpura hill range. Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted across seven villages and adjoining farmlands using structured interviews and participatory observation, focusing primarily on the Korku and Gond tribes. A total of 40 wild edible plant species belonging to diverse botanical families were recorded, including leafy vegetables, fruits, tubers and seeds. Commonly reported species included Celosia argentea L., Chenopodium album L., Bidens pilosa L., Phyllanthus amarus L. and Hibiscus cannabinus L. Information on local names, edible parts, seasonal availability, preparation methods and consumption practices was documented. The findings highlight the importance of these plants as potential sources of micronutrients, dietary fibre and bioactive compounds, particularly during food scarcity. However, modernization, habitat degradation and changing dietary habits contribute to the decline of traditional knowledge among younger generations. The study emphasizes the conservation of wild edible plant diversity, preservation of indigenous knowledge, nutritional assessment, value addition and community awareness to promote sustainable utilization and food security. Future research will investigate arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) associations with selected wild edible plants and evaluate the effects of dominant AMF species on plant growth through pot experiments.