SATIKANTA SAHOO, MANOJ KUMAR JENA, DAYANIDHI BAGARTEE AND MANOJ KUMAR PRADHAN
Abstract
A comprehensive study was undertaken to assess the aquatic flora in the Jajpur district of Odisha. The survey was conducted within different water habitats within the industrial belts of Jajpur district from 2021 to 2023, aimed at documenting the diverse aquatic habitats in this region. Extensive and intensive studies were carried out to identify and catalog the aquatic plants, with voucher specimens collected and herbaria prepared using established protocols. The research revealed a total of 84 species of aquatic and wetland plants belonging to 55 genera and 31 families. These included 44 marsh species, 18 amphibious species, 3 submerged species, as well as 10 free-floating and 9 fixed-floating species. These plants not only meet the essential needs of the local community but also play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area. Further research will be vital in preserving these valuable bio-resources for future generations.