The Zingiberaceae family boasts remarkable species diversity, with significant implications for conservation and resource management. The objective of this research is to study the diversity and traditional utilization of Zingiberaceae in Nakhon Nayok Province. Through field observations, herbarium specimens, interviews, and surveys, we documented the species, classified them into tribes, genera, and species, and analyzed their distribution across districts. The findings revealed a rich species diversity, encompassing 155 species from 16 genera and 3 tribes. The tribe Zingibereae displayed the highest species diversity (120 species), followed by Alpinieae (23 species) and Globbeae (12 species). These species were found in diverse ecosystems such as dry evergreen forests, mixed deciduous forests, and more. The study also identified the Mueang district as having the highest species count. Additionally, we explored the traditional utilization of Zingiberaceae plants in Nakhon Nayok Province, which encompasses various purposes including ornamental use, rituals, traditional medicine, and more. This research contributes valuable insights into the ecological and cultural significance of Zingiberaceae plants, identifies endangered species requiring conservation measures, and sheds light on the unique plant diversity and cultural heritage in Nakhon Nayok Province. These findings serve as a valuable resource for conservation efforts, sustainable utilization, and future research.

Saensouk S, Boonma T, Saensouk P. 2021. Six new species and a new record of Curcuma L. (Zingiberaceae) from Thailand. Biodiversitas 22: 1658-1685. All six new species and a new record of Curcumawere described with detailed illustrations, photographs, summaries for their distribution, ecology, IUCN conservation status, and followed by a new record and key to 63 species of Curcuma revised and present in Thailand. The study surveyed six new species and a new record of Curcuma to collect, describe, measure, and illustrate the living and spirit specimens under a stereoscopic microscope. Plant materials and photographs were collected in the field from 2018 to 2019. The results of the study described six new species, including Curcuma chantaranothaii Boonma & Saensouk sp. nov., C. charanii Boonma & Saensouk sp. nov., C. rangsimae Boonma & Saensouk sp. nov., C. phrayawan Boonma & Saensouk sp. nov., C. puangpeniae Boonma & Saensouk sp. nov., C. purpurata Boonma & Saensouk sp. nov., and a first new record of C. peramoena. All six new species were recognized to be endemic to Thailand.

This research investigates the Zingiberaceae family in Saraburi Province, Thailand, aiming to understand its biodiversity, distribution, ecology, conservation status, and traditional uses. Through systematic exploration, 103 species are identified, including a novel species, Kaempferia chaveerachiae Saensouk, P.Saensouk, and Boonma. Additionally, 23 species are newly reported for distribution in Saraburi Province. Methodologically, a district-wise analysis and the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) cluster analysis were employed to discern species prevalence and geographical patterns. Findings reveal varied species distribution aligned with diverse ecological conditions, informing targeted conservation strategies. Fourteen endemic species and the District Endemism Index emphasize localized conservation significance. Assessment of conservation status highlights critical and vulnerable species, prompting focused conservation initiatives. Phenological analysis underscores adaptability through flowering peaks tied to environmental cues. Ethnobotanical insights highlight the multifunctionality of Zingiberaceae, emphasizing its cultural significance and traditional applications. This study offers valuable insights into Zingiberaceae diversity, advocating for tailored conservation strategies and sustainable practices in Saraburi Province to safeguard its unique flora, habitats, and indigenous knowledge.

The Zingiberaceae family is widely recognized for its diversity, ecological significance, and economic value, playing a crucial role in both natural ecosystems and local livelihoods. This study investigates the species diversity, traditional uses, and economic importance of Zingiberaceae in Kalasin Province, northeastern Thailand, while also assessing the conservation status of species found in natural habitats. A total of 69 Zingiberaceae taxa were identified across the province, with 7 taxa found occurring only in natural habitats and 36 taxa found only in cultivation, while 26 taxa were found in both situations. Of these, twenty-five wild taxa represent new records for the province, and six are endemic. Traditional uses include food, spices, medicine, ornamental plants, commercial cultivation, rituals and socio-religious activities, and cosmetics, with rhizomes being the most utilized plant part. Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. displayed the highest economic value. Based on conservation assessments according to IUCN red list criteria, Globba conferta M.F.Newman is proposed as critically endangered (CR), 5 species as endangered, 10 taxa as vulnerable, and 17 taxa as least concern. These findings emphasize the ecological, horticultural, and economic importance of Zingiberaceae in Kalasin, where the trade of herbal products and commercial cultivation significantly contribute to local livelihoods. To ensure long-term sustainability, conservation strategies should be prioritized, balancing biodiversity preservation with economic and horticultural benefits.

Saensouk S, Boonma T, Thomudtha A, Thomudtha P, Saensouk P. 2021. Short Communication: Curcuma wanenlueanga (Zingiberaceae), a new species of subgenus Curcuma from Thailand. Biodiversitas 22: 2988-2994. Curcuma wanenlueanga Saensouk, Thomudtha & Boonma, a new species of Curcuma subgenus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae) from Thailand was described with detailed illustrations, and photographs. The dominant morphological description is terminal inflorescence, leaf adaxially green with reddish-purple along the midrib, leaf-sheath with reddish-brown tinge. Moreover, the color and smell rhizome of C. wanenlueanga has yellow with a darker core internally. It is distributed in Mae Hong Son Province, Northern Thailand, and cultivated throughout the country, i.e. Nakhon Nayok, Maha Sarakham, Chiang Mai, Tak, Chantaburi, Suratthani, and Kanchanaburi Provinces. It is used as Thai traditional medicinal. It grows in in sandy loam soil and well-drained in the mixed-deciduous forest, at elevation 700-900 m asl. It is accompanied by a revised key to 26 species of Curcuma subgenus Curcuma from Thailand.

Local markets are vital for economic activity and preserving cultural heritage, especially through vegetables central to community diets and traditions. Despite their importance, the ethnobotanical potential of these vegetables remains underexplored, particularly regarding sustainability and food security. This study examines the role of local vegetables in markets, highlighting their ecological, economic, and cultural significance. Conducted at the Chai Chumphol Temple community market in Kantarawichai District, Thailand, this research assessed the economic, cultural, and medicinal values of local vegetables. Various indices, including the economic value of vegetables (EVV), use value (UV), cultural importance (CI), informant agreement ratio (IAR), and fidelity level (%FL), were used to analyze the role of vegetables in the community. The findings underscore the importance of these vegetables in supporting local economies, preserving cultural traditions, and contributing to sustainable horticultural practices. These results highlight the potential of local vegetables to enhance horticultural biodiversity, promote food security, and support sustainable farming practices in the region.