Authentication of some flora species using basic phytochemical protocol and the need for conservation around Dennis Osadebay University Anwai, Asaba Delta State-Nigeria

Abstract

Plant species are the most useful biotic elements of the universe appearing in diverse life forms. These species are responsible for food, medicine, oxygen supply, ecosystem moderation and balancing in most cases. Plant species are constantly being destroyed for reasons best known to man. In addition to high rate of speciation in the tropics, habitat destruction, and overexploitation making the need for conservation all the more compelling. Whereas, the paucity of plant taxonomist with its inherent drawbacks constitutes key challenges to these species’ conservation, as lack of proper species information can propel destruction. The species under study includes: Myrianthus arboreus P.Beauv, Spondias mombin Linn, Tridax procumbens Linn., Newbouldia laevis (L) , Azadirachta indica A. Juss and Ixora coccinea Linn.. The aim of the study was to establish authentication protocol for these species using basic phytochemical fingerprints, in the phase of inorganic reagents and to produce a taxonomic key to be used in authenticating species in situ and ex situ. These species information was obtained and documented, while the leaves were harvested, washed under running water, air dried and blended to powder for the purpose of their phytochemistry. Ten (10) grams of samples each were soaked in absolute ethanol for 24 hours, filtered, subjected to three routine phytochemical test methods. The changes observed in extracts were used in species authentication and construction of taxonomic key. The economic benefits derived from these species predispose them to overexploitation. Accordingly, sensitization campaign, seed banking, and habitat conservation is encouraged to enhance the conservation of these species in the Niger Delta region.