Vinay Sahu

Antibacterial activity of some bryophytes used traditionally for the treatment of burn infections

Context: Plagiochasma appendiculatum L. & L. (Aytoniaceae), Conocephalum conicum (L.) Necker (Conocephalaceae), Bryum argenteum Hedw. (Bryaceae), and Mnium marginatum (With.) P. Beauv. (Mniaceae) are bryophytes (liverworts and mosses) used by traditional healers for the treatment of burn, cuts, wounds, and skin disorders. Objective: This study evaluated the antibacterial activity of four bryophytes against some common bacteria responsible for burn infections. Materials and methods: Different fractions of bryophytes were screened using the disc diffusion (qualitative) and broth microdilution (quantitative) methods, according to the guidelines of the National Committee for Clinical and Laboratory Standards. Results and discussion: Chloroform fractions of liverworts were more active against Gram negative strains while butanol fractions of mosses had significant activity against Gram positive bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus was the most sensitive strain of those tested with the butanol fraction of M. marginatum (moss), with the strongest inhibition zone of 102.92% and minimum inhibitory concentration of 30 μg mL−1. Conclusion: Our findings support the use of the bryophytes in traditional medicine for burn infections because of their significant antibacterial activity.

Two Mosses New to West Himalayan Bryoflora

The Govind Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Uttarakashi district of Uttarakhand. The area is very rich in biodiversity in general and bryodiversity in particular. During recent investigation on the bryoflora of this area, two species of mosses viz., Cyathophorella burkillii (Dixon) Broth. (Family-Hypopterygiaceae) and Symphyodon erraticus (Mitt.) A. Jaeger. (Family-Symphyodontaceae) have been identified, which are new additions to the bryoflora of western Himalaya. Both the taxa were earlier known from eastern Himalaya only. About 16 taxa of Cyathophorella are known all over the world; in India it is represented by five valid species. Fifteen species of Symphyodon are known worldwide, while in India the genus is represented by seven valid species. A morpho-taxonomic account of above two taxa is provided.

Polytrichastrum formosum (Hedw.) G.L. Smith in India

Abstract During an investigation on the bryophytes of Darjeeling and its neighbouring areas Polytrichastrum formosum (Hedw.) G.L. Smith has been identified from Sandakphu region, which is being reported for the first time from Indian territory. The plants of this species are distinctly characterized by its large, robust size; tomentose stem part below, usually unbranched or bifurcate lower region of stem; lanceolate, serrulate leaves; prominent costa, and numerous lamellae (3–4 cells high, uniform) covering ventral surface in cross section of leaves.

Gymnomitrion crenatilobum Grolle (Marchantiophyta: Gymnomitriaceae): A Rare Liverwort, New to India

Abstract Gymnomitrion crenatilobum Grolle, earlier reported from Nepal and known from the type only, is reported from Uttarakhand, India. The plants are clearly distinguishable based on a 2–3 cells wide hyaline leaf margin which is crenulate in apical half of leaves and smooth in basal half.