write a note Geographical distribution of Cycas and its economic
importance
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Answer:
Distribution of Cycas:
It is the only genus of the family Cycadaceae, which is represented in India. It has got about 15 species (Sporne, 1965), 20 species (Willis, 1966) which are widely distributed in Eastern as well as Western hemisphere from Madagascar, Eastern coast of Africa to Japan and Australia touching China and India.
In our country a few of the species are found growing abundantly in the South Andaman and Nicobar islands, Madras, Mysore, Malabar and in North East in Bengal, Assam, Nepal and Sikkim. A few of the species are also found in Burma and Ceylon.
Economic Importance of Cycas:
1. Several species of Cycas of e.g., C. revoluta, C. circinalis C. bedomei are grown in the gardens as ornamental plants.
2. From the stem ‘sago’ a kind of starch, is obtained. Hence, it is also called sago palm (C. revoluta)
3. Leaves of C. circinalis are used to prepare hats, baskets and mats. The leaves of Cycas are extensively used for decorative purposes and floral decoration.
4. The resin obtained from C. rumphii is applied to malignant ulcers.
5. Juice of tender leaves of Cycas is useful for vomiting and flatulence (the presence of excessive gas in the digestive tract).
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