A Review on the Ecology, Evolution and Conservation of Piper (Piperaceae) in India: Future Directions and Opportunities

The genus Piper (Family Piperaceae), consisting of more than 2000 species worldwide, is one of the most speciose genera of flowering plants that belong to the broad category known as basal angiosperms. Piper is known for the several medicinally and economically important species that have been used throughout their native range. Interestingly, this genus is also one of the most taxonomically challenging genera among the angiosperms. The presence of taxonomically complex as well as ecologically and economically important species makes Piper an excellent study system to address the evolution of tropical biodiversity. Being an early-diverging angiosperm genus, understanding Piper systematics and divergence patterns holds vital clues to plant evolution in the tropics. However, research on this plant group is still in a nascent stage, with the primary focus being on its medicinal importance and natural product chemistry. Its distribution, natural history, ecology, evolution and systematics remain less explored. Lack of such knowledge will impede the ongoing conservation effort and may affect the sustainable utilization of this valuable plant resource. The Indian subcontinent is an important center of Piper diversity harboring ca. 100 species, including several economically and medicinally important species such as Black pepper. Piper species in India have a high potential for future utilization; however, their conservation status and needs have not been widely reviewed. Here, we review the taxonomy, ecology and evolution, of Piper species, the threats they face, and further discuss future research directions and suggest ways forward in conserving and effectively utilizing this important plant group in India.

Automated summary

Piper, with over 2000 species worldwide, is a diverse genus belonging to basal angiosperms. Known for its medicinal and economic importance, it presents taxonomic challenges. The Indian subcontinent is a hub of Piper diversity, with potential for future utilization, yet its conservation status remains understudied.