Identification distribution and conservation of Phyllanthus indofischeri, another source of Indian gooseberry.

Non-timber forest products (NTFP) such as fruits, seeds, roots, etc. are an important source of income for the indigenous people living in and around forests1,2 . The pressure on forests for the collection of NTFPs has motivated conservation biologists and forest managers to find ways to harvest NTFPs in a sustainable manner3,4. Identification of plant species is the first and foremost criterion in planning for sustainable utilization of resources, especially if an NTFP comes from two closely related plant species or when the identity of plant species is doubtful. Proper identification of the plant species of commercial importance can shed more light on its distribution, population status in the wild, and its resource generation capability. Lack of knowledge on distribution or population status may make the species vulnerable to extinction due to over-exploitation, especially when the population is small or has restricted distribution. Thus, proper identity of the species, from which the resource of commercial interest is collected, is very important for conservation biologists and forest managers to protect the plant species from overexploitation and extinction. Proper identity of species also enables traders and consumers to avoid adulteration of products, and aids officials concerned to prevent smuggling or bio-piracy.