A Systematic Review of Ficus Species Diversity in Central India Based on Published Floras and Herbarium Records
Abstract: The genus Ficus L. (Moraceae) represents one of the most diverse and ecologically significant genera of woody angiosperms in tropical and subtropical ecosystems, comprising more than 750 recognized species worldwide. Species of Ficus function as keystone resources due to their asynchronous fruiting phenology and obligate pollination mutualism with agaonid wasps. In India, Ficus species contribute significantly to forest structure, ecosystem stability, and cultural landscapes. Central India, primarily comprising Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, represents a transitional biogeographic zone between the Indo-Gangetic plains and the Deccan plateau. Despite its ecological importance, consolidated documentation of Ficus diversity in this region remains scattered across classical floras, regional botanical accounts, herbarium records, and digital biodiversity databases. The present systematic review integrates floristic literature, authenticated herbarium vouchers, and global biodiversity databases to compile an updated checklist of Ficus species occurring in Central India. The synthesis confirms moderate but ecologically significant species richness across dry deciduous and riparian ecosystems. The study establishes a scientific baseline for future field surveys and conservation planning.
Keywords: Ficus, Moraceae, Central India, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, herbarium records, floristic diversity
How to Cite?: Abhishek Shukla, Dr. Meenakshi Rathaur, "A Systematic Review of Ficus Species Diversity in Central India Based on Published Floras and Herbarium Records", Volume 15 Issue 11, November 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 388-390, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR261109104934, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR261109104934