Nutritional Assessment of Invasive Alien Plants as Bioprospecting Resources in Mizoram, an Indo-Burma Mega Biodiversity Hotspot in India

Abstract: Background: The nutritional value, antinutritional properties, mineral and Vitamin content of six invasive Alien Plant species (IAPs) namely Ageratina adenophora, riparia, Chromolaena odorata, Ocimum americanum, Bidens pilosa Hyptis suaveolens which are used by the local inhabitants in Mizoram, India was analysed. Materials Methods: proximate composition, contents, were investigated following standard analysis protocols. Tannins, saponins, oxalates, cyanogenic glycoside, phytate estimated to ascertain properties selected IAPs. Water soluble Vitamins HPLC method results analysed utilising Statistical Package SIGMAPLOT 14.5 (Systat Software Inc., USA). Results: Results revealed high protein (1.19-12.70%, dry plant material), carbohydrate (1.55-26.79%, material) ash (6.93–12.14%) but low crude fat (1.12–3.64%) these Highest Vitamin-C observed A. adenophora (28.15 mg/ 100 g material). oxalate maximum riparia (0.29% ± 0.003%) least O. americanum (0.17% 0.002%); ranged from (0.06% 0.001%) C. odorata (0.11% 0.007%) americanum. Tannin detected highest (3.82% 0.164%) (1.75% 0.024%). Highly invaded contained order Ca> Zn > K Mg Na Fe Mn Cu. Conclusion: It can be concluded that IAPs exhibited nutritive value (high protein, content; micronutritional components minerals) examined plants. study recommends could potentially as a food or feed additive Mizoram locals for sustainable management Keywords: Invasive alien plants, Antinutrients, Minerals content, Proximate Vitamin.