Analysis of plant resources and diversity in Shennongjia Area of Hubei Province, China

Abstract

Shennongjia Area is located in northwest of Hubei Province with Shennongding, the highest peak (3105.4 m above sea level) in central China. The unique geographical location and complex terrain of this region make it rich in plant resources. After field investigation, literature review, and specimen identification, the 7th Shenyang Pharmaceutical University Chinese Medicine Resources Scientific Expedition Team studied the plant resources and diversity of Shennongjia Area. 454 species of vascular plants belonging to 106 families and 275 genera were collected from July to August in 2013. The dominant families are Lamiaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, and Asteraceae, with 20, 21, 37 and 48 species respectively. At the genus level, Rubus is the dominant one with 11 species. 3 species of national first-class protective plants, 13 species of “Huan yang yao” and 36 species of “Qi yao” were collected. In all, our research has updated the plant recources and diversity in Shennongjia Area. Furthermore, by putting forward practical and meaningful suggestions on strengthening the protection and utilization of plant resources in Shennongjia Area, our research will help to protect the diverse ecosystem there.

Keywords

plant resources / diversity / medicinal use / Shennongjia Area

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank Professor Wu Chunfu of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University for the design and arrangement of the scientific expedition route, thank Mr. Dong Xiaoming and Mr. Xue Baizhong for their funding, and also thank all the members of the 7th Chinese Medicine Scientific Expedition Team of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University for their hard work.

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