Neglected starch plants: an ethnobotanical investigation from Guangxi, China

Throughout history, diverse ethnic groups worldwide have accumulated rich traditional knowledge related to starch plants through long-term use. This knowledge plays a crucial role in maintaining global food security and contributing to the achievement of SDG 2. Guangxi, a region in China known for its rich biocultural diversity, harbors a vast number of understudied and underutilized starch plants along with associated traditional knowledge. Traditional starch plants constitute an important component of Guangxi’s biocultural heritage and contribute to local food security, although associated traditional knowledge is undergoing rapid erosion. This study aims to conduct an ethnobotanical investigation of these plants in the region, document their traditional uses, and evaluate their practical value. Using ethnobotanical approaches, including semi-structured interviews, free listing, and participatory observation, 127 key informants (such as traditional farmers, herbal healers, and village elders) across 67 locations in Guangxi were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical information on starch plants. An Ethnobotanical Economical Plant Index (EEPI) was constructed to quantitatively assess the value of these plants. A total of 199 species of starch plants were recorded, belonging to 53 families, with Fabaceae (37 species), Fagaceae (17 species), and Poaceae (14 species) being the most represented. Herbs were the dominant life form (78 species, 39.2%). The most frequently used plant parts were seeds (73 species), stems (41 species), and roots (30 species). Additionally, these starch plants were found to have a wide range of other uses. EEPI analysis indicated that 15 species, such as Ficus pumila , Dioscorea polystachya , and Ficus carica , had utility index values exceeding 1.75, demonstrating high potential for development. Guangxi possesses abundant traditional starch plant resources that play a significant role in maintaining dietary diversity and supporting local livelihoods, with practical implications for achieving SDG 2. Beyond documenting the diversity of neglected starch plants, this study highlights their significance for biocultural diversity, traditional ecological knowledge, and regional food security. Conservation strategies should therefore integrate both in situ conservation of plant resources and documentation and transmission of associated traditional knowledge. Promoting the sustainable utilization of culturally important starch plants may contribute to biodiversity conservation, rural development, and resilient local food systems. It is recommended to enhance the sustainable use and knowledge transmission of these plants and integrate them into local food security strategies.