Geographical Variation in Morphological Traits of Catharanthus Roseus: A Comparative Study Across Five Distinct Ecological Niches From Southern Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Medicinal plants have been vital in human history for their therapeutic benefits, offering a sustainable and accessible alternative to synthetic drugs. Among these, Catharanthus roseus [L.] G. Don stands out for its pharmacological significance, producing bioactive compounds such as vincristine and vinblastine, which are critical in cancer treatment. This plant's adaptability across diverse ecological zones highlights its resilience and underscores the influence of environmental factors on its morphology and physiology. Morphological variations in plants, particularly those growing across altitudinal and climatic gradients, can reveal insights into their adaptive strategies and evolutionary trends. However, limited research has been conducted on the relationship between environmental gradients and the phenotypic diversity of C. roseus. This study focuses on the morphological characterization of C. roseus collected from five distinct agro-climatic zones in the Kanyakumari district. By analyzing variations in traits such as leaf dimensions, stem structure, and inflorescence, this research aims to understand how environmental conditions influence morphological expressions. Exploring these variations not only aids in species identification but also enhances our understanding of how environmental and genetic factors interact to shape plant adaptability. Such insights can further inform the conservation and optimized cultivation of medicinal plants, emphasizing their role in traditional medicine and modern pharmacology.