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We are here with another informative blog on hranker.com.
In today’s blog we will be learning about the first cryptogamic garden inaugurated in India. We will talk in detail about what cryptogams are, their importance, why the location of Uttarakhand was chosen and several other points related to it. Read till the end of the blog to know some interesting facts about cryptogams.
What are cryptogams?
A cryptogam is a plant or a plant-like organism that reproduces by spores, without flowers or seeds. Cryptogamae means “hidden reproduction”. They are named so because it is difficult to see their reproductive organs.As no seed is produced, they represent non-seed bearing plants. The best known groups of cryptogams are algae, moses, bryophytes, lichens and ferns. It also includes non-photosynthetic organisms such as fungi, bacteria and slime molds.
Cryptogamic Garden – Location and objective behind it
The garden was inaugurated by the social activist Anoop Nautiyal. The location chosen was Chakrata town of Dehradun district, Uttarakhand.
The forest officials aim at spreading awareness and display the diversity of Himalayan flora in the State.
Major factors responsible for the location
- The park is in the Deoban area in Chakrata at a height of 9000 ft in an area of acres.
- The site has low pollution levels and moist conditions which are necessary for the growth of these species.
- Also, Deoban has forests of Deodar and Oak thereby providing a natural habitat for cryptogamic species.
- The cryptogamic garden houses around 76 species of lichens, ferns and fungi.
Importance of cryptogams
The various cryptogamic organisms play a vital role in the ecosystem.
Algae – As these are healthy sources of vitamins and minerals, they are used as a food ingredient in several countries. It can also be used as liquid fertilizer as it helps in repairing the level of nitrogen present in the soil.
Ferns – These are indicators of the moisture regime of the area.
Bryophytes – Like algae, bryophytes also clean the environment. They monitor air pollution and prevent soil erosion as they bind to the rocky surfaces.
Lichens – Lichens are useful for making items like perfume, medicines, dyes and cosmetics.
Fungi – These are used both in household and industrial processes. For example, in making wine, beer, bread and certain cheeses.
The conservation of these species also benefits the fauna of the region. Mosses are used by birds for making their nests.
Important Takeaways on Uttarakhand
Governor – Baby Rani Maurya
Chief Minister – Pushkar Singh Dhami
With this we come to the end of this blog. We covered all the major points related to cryptogams and why they are important to the ecosystem. We also mentioned important takeaways which may be useful for all kinds of competitive exams.
Stay tuned with hranker.com for more such updates.
