Survey and analysis of taxonomic characters of species of Dioscoreaceae R.Br. sensu APG in Ilocos Norte, Luzon, Philippines

Dioscoreaceae is a unique monocot family exhibiting some morphological traits of dicots and having economic potential. This research explored the ethnobotanical significance, population status, and taxonomic characteristics of Dioscoreaceae in Ilocos Norte, Philippines. Ethnobotanical data were gathered through plant interviews with local communities, while field surveys assessed plant population and distribution, providing insights regarding conservation status. Leaf architectural characters were examined to resolve taxonomic ambiguities. The findings revealed diverse ethnobotanical applications of wild yams, as food, feed, and medicine and sources of family income. Population surveys indicated 10 spp. constituting 48% of Philippine yams, with two endemics and three facing scarce populations and narrow distribution. Seven species (D, alata, D. esculenta var. fasciculata, D. esculenta var. spinosa, D. hispida, D. pentaphylla, T. leontopetaloides, T. palmata) are new records to the checklist of llocandia yams and need to be appended in the digital checklist of Philippine yams. Taxonomic analysis highlighted 19 key morphological and leaf architectural characters that differentiated species, providing a basis for accurate identification and classification. These characters distinguish the Taccas from the Dioscoreas. But, important venation characters alone can distinguish almost similar taxa like D. esculenta var. spinosa and var. fasciculata, leading to the hypothesis that they are two distinct species. Conservation priorities were identified through LCPI, leading to recommendations on sustainable harvesting practices. A comprehensive conservation and development framework was developed to ensure genetic resource preservation and sustainable use of wild yams. This research integrates local insights into policy formulation, RDE agenda setting, and upscaling, demonstrating local act with a global impact.