Morphological, cytological and phytochemical studies in naturally occurring diploid and tetraploid populations of Physochlaina praealta from high altitudes of Trans-Himalaya

Physochlaina praealta samples were studied macromorphologically and cytomorphologically along with their detailed phytochemical investigation. The concentration of phytoconstituents showed a strong positive correlation with the ploidy level and altitudinal gradients. The total phenol content was detected maximum in the methanolic extract of leaves and stem of higher altitudinal plants in both cytotypes (2x, 4x). The maximum content of flavonoids was detected in the methanolic extract of root and leaves. Root organ from higher elevation possessed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, with the maximum percentage of inhibition being obtained in methanolic extracts. The plants of both cytotypes from higher elevations accumulate an abundant quantity of secondary metabolites. The two cytotypes differ from each other with respect to various morphometric characters thereby depicting the drastic affect of polyploidy.

Automated summary

The study revealed that the concentration of phytoconstituents in Physochlaina praealta samples is positively correlated with the ploidy level and altitudinal gradients. Plants from higher elevations accumulated a significant amount of secondary metabolites, with different cytotypes showing differences in various morphometric characters due to polyploidy. Additionally, the methanolic extracts from leaves and stems of higher altitude plants showed the highest total phenol content.