Author

Suchismita Acharya1* and Kunja Bihari Satapathy2

Abstract

Wild Edible Fruit Plants (WEPs) are an important alternative source of healthy and nutritious food. In the Keonjhar district of Odisha, several wild edible fruit species are traditionally used by rural and tribal populations as part of their daily sustenance and livelihoods. Keonjhar is home to 25 tribal communities, with major groups including the Bathudi, Bhuyan, Bhumij, Gond, Ho, Kora, Juang, Kharwar, Kisan, Kolha, Munda, Oraon, Santal, Sabara, and Sounti. Together, these groups constitute nearly 90% of the district’s total population. These indigenous communities depend heavily on forests for food, nutrition, and income. This article documents 71 important wild fruit species used by the tribal communities of Keonjhar. For each species, the correct botanical name (with author citation), family name, local name, and traditional ethnobotanical uses are provided. Despite possessing deep knowledge of these native fruit resources, tribal communities have not yet embraced fruit tree cultivation - an opportunity that could significantly alleviate food insecurity and contribute to global nutrition goals.. This article aims to serve as a valuable reference for the sustainable utilization of lesser-known and underutilized biological resources for human welfare.

Pages:208-216

Doi Number 10.61289/jibs2026.11.16.0368

Keywords Indigenous, Wild edible fruit plants, Ethnic uses, Keonjhar, Odisha.