Showing papers in "The Indian Forester in 2004"

A Study on Community Structure and Diversity of a Sub-tropical Forest of Garhwal Himalayas

Abstract: Two study sites selected on the basis of the disturbance gradient at the elevation from 900 to 1,300 m asl in the sub-tropical zone of District Pauri of the Garhwal Himalayas were studied for the structure and diversity of the forest. Density, total basal cover, importance value index, similarity index, concentration of dominance, diversity index, beta diversity and equitability index were analysed for tree, shrub, sapling and seedling layers of the forests and compared for the both the sites. The forest sites showed differences in analytic characters. The concentration of dominance and the index of diversity were higher for the mildly disturbed forest site.

Biodegradation of Cellulose by Wood Decaying Fungi

Abstract: The cellulolytic activity of some wood decaying fungi using filter paper cellulose was screened. All the species tested decomposed cellulose. Oxyporus ravidus and Funalia leonina exhibited maximum cellulolytic activity. While Pyrofomes tricolor was slow decomposer. The decomposition rate varied considerably with all the tested fungi. It was found that the initial pH value of the medium changed considerably after incubation period.

Importance of Biotechnological Research in Tree Species of Dashamula

Abstract: Traditional health care system of India uses the vast resources of medicinal and aromatic plants in the protection of health, as drugs and fragrance materials. The growing interest in commercialisation of plant-based medicines has lead to over exploitation of the plants. This review provides an account of the present status of medicinal importance and biotechnological research in the five Dashamula tree species namely Aegle marmelos, Gmelina arborea, Oroxylum indicum, Premna integrifolia and Stereospermum suaveolens . In Dashamula tree species, where the roots are used in preparation of ayurvedic formulations, the destruction of plants are severe and planting of seedlings for these species is almost negligible. Clonal propagation throngh macro and micropropagation is practiced in a limited scale for Gmelina arborea and Aegle marmelos . Research activities are negligible in the species like Oroxylum indicum, Premna integrifolia and Stereospermum suaveolens . Research towards either genetically improving the species for higher production of the active components or increasing the production of the compounds under in vitro culture conditions is essential and it is practiced in several medicinal plant species. The application of in vitro culture for the propagation of Dashamula tree species will help in the sustainable availability of propagules and plant products.

Viable Agroforestry Models and their Economics in Yamunanagar District of Haryana and Haridwar District of Uttaranchal

Abstract: In India, natural forests are being conserved primarily for the environmental benefits. Serious efforts are also being done to plant large number of trees outside forest under social forestry programs to increase the tree cover and fulfill demand of various forest produce required by the people and forest based industries. Agricultural fields are one of the potential areas, where large scale planting of trees can be taken up along with the agricultural crops. Agroforestry models adopted by the farmers in Haryana and Uttaranchal states of India are highly lucrative, therefore, attracting farmers in a big way. NPV for different models on six years rotation varies from Rs. 26,626 to Rs. 72,705 ha -1 yr -1 whereas Benefit-Cost ratio and Internal Rate of Return vary from 2.35 to 3.73 and 94% to 389% respectively. Agroforestry has not only uplifted socioeconomic status of the farmers but also contributed towards overall development of the region.

Seed Germination Improvement Using Chemicals in Heracleum candicans Wall, a Threatened Medicinal Herb of Himalaya

Abstract: To meet mass multiplication demand in ex-situ cultivation of Heracleum candicans (Apiaceae), a threatened medicinal herb of Himalaya, presoaking treatments of plant growth regulators and other chemicals examined to achieve improved seed germination In laboratory condition, of 15 treatments tried, GA 3 (250uM), KNO 3 (100 mM) and NaHCIO 3 (15,30 and 45 minutes) significantly stimulated the seed germination over control NaHCIO 3 (30-min) proved significantly best treatment for achieving highest germination (813%) and reducing mean germination time over control Authors recommended the use of KNO 3 and NaHCIO 3 as effective and cheep stimulants to seed germination in mass multiplication and conservation programme for H candicans in Himalaya

Biomass Production of Eucalyptus tereticornis in Different Agroecological Regions of India

Abstract: Climate inter alia is the strongest ecological factor in determining the primary production. Eucalyptus tereticornis (Mysore Gum) is most widely planted species in India. In the present paper an attempt has been made to assess the primary production of the species in different agroecological regions ofIndia. Depending on length of growing period (LGP) and precipitation, country has been divided into six agroecological zones and available data on biomass produetion has been stratified into different agroecological zones. In general biomass varied from 11.9 t/ha in three year old plantation to 146 t/ha in 9 year old plantation in moist regions. In dry tropical region it varied from 5.65 t/ha in 5 year plantation to 135.5 t/ha in 9 year old plantation. In dry tropical regions biomass accumulation was more in cooler areas as compared to warmer areas. Where water is not the limiting factor comparatively higher mean annual temperature of around 25°C seems to produce higher biomass. A higher share of leaf biomass was observed in dry region. The root/shoot ratio was also higher in dry tropical region.

Integrated Development of Farm-forestry Plantations and Wood Based Industries

Abstract: Farm forestry plantations, based on genetically improved planting stock and supported with improved package of practices, offer an economically attractive and environmentally safe option for much needed di versification of agriculture and growth of wood based industries. This paper highlights the need for integrated planning for promotion of farm-forestry and wood based industries as neither can grow in isolation. Integrated planning will also minimize periodical local demand and supply imbalances, cut down avoidable costs on transport of farm grown wood to far away factories and safeguard the legitimate interests of farmers and industries. Paper recommends specific policy initiatives for harnessing the full potential of technology based farm forestry plantations. The vast potential of farm forestry plantations for achieving self sufficiency in timber and wood-based products including newsprint and paper, thereby saving huge outflow of foreign exchange, is emphasized. Planned growth of farm forestry integrated with industries will create ample employment opportunities for the local people, enlarge the forest cover and ameliorate the environment and indirectly conserve the biodiversity rich natural forests by reducing biotic pressures on them.

Lichen Diversity and its Distribution Pattern in Tropical Dry Evergreen Forest of Guindy National Park (GNP), Chennai

Abstract: Quantitative ecological data suggested the impact of key site characters on lichens within the Tropical Dry Evergreen Forest at GNP. Twelve quadrats (each of 0.1 ha) were inventoried for lichen species diversity and their relationship with prominent site characters such as vegetation structure, tree density and host tree diversity were analyzed at GNP, Chennai. A total no of 31 species of lichens were found under 26 genera in 19 families in 9 Fungal Orders, recorded from 219 individuals of phorophytes in a total sample of 264 out of which 235 trees, 27 shrubs and 2 lianas of ≥ 3cm gbh. Strongest correlation emerged between tree density and host tree diversity on lichen distribution. Species like Arthopyrenia alboatra, Parmotrema saccatilobum, Strigula elegans, Tapellaria sp. and Verrucaria sp were found to be narrowly distributed in the park and specific to a single host.

New insect pest records of Khejri and Rohida from Rajasthan and their possible management strategies.

Abstract: Insect pests are amongst the most important detrimental factors in the successful establishment and growth of Prosopis cineraria (Linn) (Khejri) and Tecomella undulata (Sm.) Seem (Rohida) in arid and semi arid zone of Rajasthan. P. cineraria , the 'king tree' of Indian arid region, is revered for its range of products and services rendered to desert inhabitants. Khejri has a unique distinction of being referred in a variety of contexts, besides being a tree of socio-economic importance, it bears religious legends. T. undulata (Sm.) Seem, is one of the co-dominating tree species in the desert forests of western Rajasthan and adjoining lands of Haryana and Punjab. Twenty six potential pests on P. cineraria and P. juliflora have been recorded from arid and semi-arid areas. Of them, 18 species have been recorded as new pest records on P. cineraria including four species of long horned beetles viz., Derolus iranensis (=descicollis) Pic, Aeolesthes holosericea Fab, Hypoeschrus indicus Gahan and Acanthophorus serraticornis (Oliver) which have been recorded to exhibit severe damage to Prosopis cineraria in four north western districts of Rajasthan. In all 64 insect species have been recorded on T.undulata in the form of pests. Of them, 24 insect species were observed for the first time to cause mild to severe damage to marwar teak in arid and semi arid areas. Seedlings and young plantations of T. undulata are frequently severely attacked by a serious curculionid pest, Patialus tecomella throughout the tract of its distribution in arid and semi-arid areas. Natural enemy complex recorded on the insect pests of Prosopis cineraria and Tecomella undulata during the course of these investigations play an important role in controlling the outbreaks of insect pests of these economically important tree species in arid and semi-arid regions. Twenty species of parasites, thirteen species of predators and three species of entomopathogens were found associated with the potential insect pests of Khejri and Rohida A potential pupal parasite, Billeae atkinsoni has been recorded to keep the pest populations below the level of economic threshold. Integrated management strategy has been discussed to save the Khejri trees from large scale drying.

An Inventory of Medicinal Plants of some Sacred Groves of Purulia District, West Bengal

Abstract: Sacred groves are small patches of forests protected by local communities on religious grounds. A repository of medicinal plants, these are a unique traditional Indian way of in-situ conservation of biodiversity. This paper deals with 18 sacred groves of Purulia District of West Bengal and also highlights the role played by these groves in medicinal plant conservation. The study for the first time records 56 species of medicinal plants growing in these groves. It also mentions the threats to the sacred groves.

Butterflies of Nanda Devi National Park - a World Heritage Site

Abstract: Nanda Devi National Park, declared as such in 1982, was further made a Biosphere Reserve in January 1988. Realising its biological diversity and several rare and endangered endemic floral and faunal species, it was decalred a world heritage site by the United Nations in Dec. 1988. This research supports many plant and faunal spices. The author has documented 35 butterfly species belonging to 25 genera and four families, as a result of his study between in 2001, in this Park, as part of the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre Lansdowne expedition in this region.

Nutritional Evaluation of some Famine Foods of Rajasthan Desert

Abstract: Local man resorts to wild plants for his rescue in times of scarcity of food. Study was undertaken to assess the nutrient content of several of these edible wild plants used during hardship. Crude protein contents of seeds, leaves and branches of locally used famine foods of arid region including potential exotic Acacias has been determined. CP of bark of Acacia leucophloea, Acacia nilotica and Prosopis cineraria has been found to be 18.70/r, 13.7% and 23.1% respectively. Leaves of Cleome viscosa, Aerva javanica, Cassia tora and Balanites aegyptiaca contain 29.9%, 29.3%, 1.9% and 26.3% Protein respectively. Acacia seeds contain maximum amounts of CP viz., Acacia senegal has 35.8% protein. Capparis and Prosopis from a good nutritious source of food. They can be called famine foods attracting additional consumer category.

Altitudinal variation in chlorophyll fluorescence/photosynthetic efficiency in seedlings of some indigenous fodder species

Abstract: Chlorophyll fluorescence variation studies of five indigenous fodder tree species were conducted at three altitude (640, 1200 and 1800m) in Garhwal Himalayas to find out the photosynthetically most active, photosynthetic efficiency of these species as influenced by altitude as well as to understand the adaptation potential of a species along with altitudinal gradient. Pronounced variation in photochemical efficiency of photosystem II was recorded as Fv/Fm ratio on fully developed leaves in sunny days. Among the tested species Grewia optiva, Bauhinia purpurea, Melia azedarach and Celtis australis showed reduction in Fv/Fm ratio with increasing altitude. However, in Quercus leucotrichophora Fv/Fm ratio increased with increasing altitude. The extent of chlorophyll fluorescence variation at three altitudes was probably due to the habitat specific liking of individual species orl environmental variation has been discussed in the present communication.

Impact of Participatory forest Management on Socio-economic Development of Rural People: a Case Study in Kodsi and Talaichittor Villages of Dehra Dun District

Abstract: Joint Forest Management or Participatory Forest Management (PFM) got its formal shape in the year 1990. A need has arisen to evaluate the impact of this new management tool. A study was taken up in Kodsi and Talaichittor villages of Dehra Dun District to assess the impact of PFM on the socio-economic development of rural people and to identify the prime ingredients of PFM programme responsible for bringing about the desired changes. It was observed that the household income has considerably increased due to alternative job opportunities, agricultural production has increased, there is reduction in distance travelled and time spent for fuel wood and fodder collection, village women are now financially empowered, and institution building has paved the way for sustainability of the whole process.

Non-timber forest Products of Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary: an Assessment

Abstract: Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary has been surveyed for the availability of type and amount of Non-Timber Forest Produces. A total of 132 species has been recognised as NTFP producers which include plants of different habit groups, occupying different strata and types of vegetation. While the existence of an established market for only 22 of these articles are there a list of another 27 articles have been provided for which proper markets need to be developed immediately. Prices for at least 33 articles could not be ascertained. Stress has provided for the proper survey of NTFPs in North Bengal vegetations and to develop strategies for their proper sustainable extraction and utilisation.

Spatial Variability of pH and Organic Carbon in Soils under Bamboo Based Agroforestry Models in a Degraded Area

Abstract: Spatial variability of surface soil pH and organic carbon was studied in perpendicular transects at sites in near Jabalpur (M.P.) put to bamboo based agroforestry models and compared to control for two continuous years. The land under present study was degraded and occurs in a continuous path. Though, there was no systematic pattern of variation of values of pH and organic carbon in different directions, there was slightly less variability in North-South direction as compared to East-West direction. Overall, heterogeneity was found to be more in the first year than second year (i.e two seasons of agro-forestry land use). Shrubs and herbs invaded through bamboo based agroforestry practices in the degraded sites form the center of influence from which soil properties vary spatially.

Diversity and Productivity Effect on the Amelioration of Afforested Sodic Soils

Abstract: New forests created on sodic wastelands, consisting of different community structure ameliorate the soil at various degrees according to productivity and diversity status Three such forested sites were selected at Banthra Research Station of National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, India with different productivity and diversity indices descending from site I (S 1 ) to III (S 3 ), which were compared with a control (non forested) sodic soil site Importance value index (IVI) decreased from 320 to 150 from site I to III Shannon-Wiener's general diversity index was greatest in site I (185) and lowest in site III (137) Population density, basal area and biomass also declined accordingly Dominant genera in these Forest stands were Acacia, Albizia, Dalbergia, Terminalia, Bauhinia and Syzygium whereas grasses/forbs viz Sporobolus, Desmostachya and Dactyloctenium were common on barren sodic land A remarkable reduction in soil pH and exchangeable sodium percentage (67-73%) was noticed in afforested sites compared to the control as a result of combined effect of increased diversity and productivity Individual effects of diversity or productivity were measured as 42% and 58%, respectively in soil amelioration The soil fertility increased 2 to 3 times in organic carbon and 27 to 37 times in total nitrogen content on afforested sites However, these improvements were greatest in surface soil (015 m) for C and N (68 & 73%) in comparison to lower depths (51 & 65%) Among the exchangeable cations, Na + reduced by 41-57% from the control in afforested sites (I and II) while Ca ++ content increased of 38-68% in these sites In general, available Zn, Fe and Mn contents increased in forested sites I and II whereas Cu decreased significantly in site II but remains at par on site I from the control A rapid ch!lnge in soil properties occurred on surface soil even on poor afforested site while the rate of improvement at depths below 03 m depicted a slow amelioration process A combined effect of both biomass productivity and species diversity of about 92% ameliorated the soil more significantly instead of individual factors, which should be taken into account for the rehabilitation of such sodic soil sites

Air-layering of trees with differential adventitious rooting response

Abstract: Five economically important forestry species namely Anogiessus latifolia, Boswellia serrata, Dalbergia latifolia, Dalbergia sissoo and Gmelina arborea having differential adventitious rooting response were evaluated for air-layering. Shoots of randomly selected trees of each species were girdled and covered with soilrite and black polythene. After forty five days, the air-layered shoots were detached from the trees to record observations on alive air-layered shoot (%), callusing (%), rooting (%), root number, root length, root fresh and dry weight. The procedure was found to be feasible for clonal propagation of Boswellia serrata and Dalbergia sissoo with 52 % and 68 % adventitious rhizogenesis, respectively. Formation of callus in Dalbergia latifolia, Anogiessus latifolia and Gmelina arborea suggests strong possibility of successful air. layering if suitable exogenous treatments are provided.

Above Ground Biomass of Quercus semecarpifolia Sm. Forest Surveyed on Natural and Semi-natural Stands in Nepal

Abstract: Above ground biomass studies of Quercus semecarpifolia Sm. forest , that extends throughout temperate regions in Nepal , has been carried out at six different localities namely Suke Pokhari , Deurali , Shivapuri , Phulchoki , Chotra and Chankheli Lekh in eastern , central and western part representing two plots on each site respectively. The altitude ranged from 2410 to 3260m. The study was conducted in 1600m 2 plot in all the localities. Above ground tree layer biomass was found to be 479.17 , 357.53 , 462.60 , 358.02 , 272.15 and 304.21 t/ha from East to West respectively. Basal area coverage ranged from 7.36 to 12.32 m 2 . Immediate attention for the sustainable supply of fodder and fuelwood has been felt urgent and keeping in view the ecological role of vegetation on the environmental protection a scientific management of the forest ecosystem as a whole for long-term planning has been stressed.

Hippophae Linn. (Seabuckthorn) in India: a Review

Abstract: Seabuckthorn ( Hippophae spp.) belongs to family Elaeagnaceae. It grows in the forest areas of Mountains from Hindu Kush - Himalayan region , adjoining area's of China and parts of Europe. There are three species of genus Hippophae distributed in the Himalayan part of India. Seabuckthorn forests are supposed to be a store house of nutrients and many items like jams , soft drinks , sauces , pickle , jelly and biscuits are made from it. Its fruits are good source of vitamins. Apart from this , it is used as firewood , fencing soil conservation. In India , the Field Research Laboratory , Leh has developed few products from it like Jam , squash , sauces , pickles etc. Squash produced by them does not freeze up to -22°C. Suitable products from Hippophae salicifolia can raise the economic status of the people of Uttaranchal.

Hydrology and Sediment Loading of Hokersar Wetland Sanctuary in the Kashmir Himalaya , India

Abstract: Hydrological characteristics and sedimentation loading in Hokersar wetland of Kashmir Himalaya was monitored from November 2000 to October 2001. The computed water budget showed a substantial (91%) input from various surface inflows and just 9% through precipitation. Major water discharge (67%) occurs through surface outlets , whilst , 33% is attributed to evapotranspiration and other unaccounted for losses. Relatively low flushing rate (3.75 times/year) and high residence time (97.3 days) contribute to increased nutrient retention in the wetland. The inflow/outflow rates are closely linked to precipitation and water demand in'the catchment. Annual sediment accumulation of 16 ,862.2 metric tonnes (93% contributed by Doodganga Channel) accounts for gradual filling-in of the Kokersar wetland ecosystem.

Growth and Productivity of Acacia Hybrids on Degraded Forest Lands and other Wastelands in Western Ghats Region of Karnataka

Abstract: Acacia species trials in MPM have given rise to open pollinated Acacia hybrids from the cross between Acacia auriculiformis and Acacia mangium . They are found to be well adapted to the hot humid conditions of Western Ghats in Karnataka. Acacia hybrids originated from Acacia mangium mother are designated as Mangi-auriculis and those originated from A. auriculiformis as 'Auriculi-mangis'. The growth performance of Mangi-auriculis is closely monitored since 1992 and the wood analysis has indicated that, the wood is suitable for pulp and paper production. Mass production of Acacia hybrid propagules is done through simple and cheap technology and large-scale clonal plantations are established. The MAI of Acacia hybrid in clonal plantation is 32m 3 in 5th year whereas the MAI of Acacia auriculiformis is 16m 3 at the end of 8 years. It is predicted that Acacia hybrid clonal plantations can achieve a MAI of 40 to 45m 3 at the end of 8 years. Clone × site interaction trials are undertaken in both wet and dry zone to choose sitespecific clones for higher productivity. MPM has drawn future strategies in the field of Tree improvement and Tree breeding to further improve the productivity of plantations. The growth potential of Acacia hybrids and their role in plantation programme are discussed in this paper.

Wild Medicinal Plants of Jaunsar-Bawar (Western Himalayas), Uttarakhand - II

Abstract: The paper reports sixty seven wild medicinal plants used by the natives of Jaunsar-Bawar (Western Himalaya), Uttarakhand. A list of additional 116 wild medicinal plants already reported from this area by the authors is also given.

Cultivation of Hedychium spicatum (Kapoor Kachari) , Valeriana wallichii and Roscoea purpurea in Hill Regions of India

Abstract: A complete package of practices for commercial cultivation of Hedychium spicatum Ham . ex. Smith , Valeriana wallichii DC. and Roscoea purpurea Royle were worked out at National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources , Regional Station , Shimla. The seed rhizomes weighed about 40-50 g of H. spicatum planted at a row-to-row and plant-to-plant distance of 45cm × 30 cm in the furrows at depth of 10-12cm and applied with well rotten FYM at the rate of 30-35 tonnes/ha and have given yield of 115-120 q/ha matured rhizomes after 2 years. Planting of V. wallichii into rows 40-50 cm apart and at 20-30 cm spacing between plants along with a dose of 35-40 tonnes FYM yielded 70-75 q/ha fresh root mass and dried root mass of 20-25 qlha. its autumn harvest (September-October) after two years is considered optimal. The seed tubes of R. purpurea weighed 4-5 g gave yield of 25-30 q/ha when sown in furrows with row-to-row distance and plant-to-plant distance of 30 × 15cm at 8cm depth and applied with FYM dose of 25-30 tonnes/ha.

Ethno-medicinal Study of some Important Plants of Jharkhand and their Conservation

Abstract: The increasing demand of medicinal plants has resulted in the rapid dwindling of these natural resources and there is a urgent need of systematic and conservation and sustainable production of medicinal plants involving local communities, university students and developmental field groups with stronger linkages for collaborative work to meet future demand on a sustained manner. There are some plants which are a panacea for most human ailments. Their documentation is the need of the hour. Also suitable propagation techniques are to be developed, like tissue culture etc. In light of this, it is essential to havc an interface between traditional trends and modern concept of production, marketing and technology of this important resource. Creating awareness and proper networking on the medicinal properties of these indigenous plants, which we very often encounter in our daily life, through dissemination of research data with extension activities will go a long way in conserving nature's priceless gift.

Fuelwood collection and consumption pattern in the buffer zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Western Himalaya, India.

Abstract: The article describes patterns of fuel wood collection and per capita daily consumption across seasons and altitudes in the buffer zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Western Himalayas. Three villages, located at different altitudes were monitored during 1994-1995 in order to identify fuel wood collection pattern during 1995-1996 to quantify fuelwood consumption patterns. Rate of fuel wood collection was found to be highest just before the onset of winter during September-October. With declining altitude, per capita daily and seasonal consumption of fuel wood also declined. Average per capita daily consumption was, however, substantially higher in the study villages when compared to other studies. At the household level there was a negative correlation between family size and per capita daily consumption of wood. Easy accessibility to fuelwood in the surrounding forests, cold climatic conditions and the lack of alternatives resources have been identified as the major factors for the higher consumption rates of fuel wood, especially in the higher altitude villages. The findings of the study have been concluded in the light of the sustainable use of wood fuel for the long-term conservation of the buffer zone forest.

Flowering and Fruiting Phenology of Plants of a Dry Deciduous Forest in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, India

Abstract: Plant phases and their phenological events in time and space were recorded in respect of flower buds, mature flowers, unripe fruit and ripe fruits. Out of 214 plants species, collected in the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary (KWS) 45 species were examined for their different phytophases. The phenological scores of each species and their phytophases were examined between January 1997 to December t 997. The phenology study in KWS suggests that this dry-deciduous forest produced enough flowers and fruits available throughout the year, even in the difficult conditions like in summer, to support wild and domestic animals. The majority of species flowered in the hot season. The peak month for flowering was April, whereas fruting takes place round the year with some peak in May but, concentration of ripe and unripe fruits were common during monsoon.

Nursery Diseases of Dipterocarpus retusus

Abstract: Dipterocarpus retusus is widely used in the manufacturing of plywood in North-eastern region of the country The species suffers heavily from a variety of diseases caused mainly by fungal pathogens in the nursery During the period of 1995 to 2000, various diseases such as damping-opp, root rot, shoot blight and foliar diseases were recorded at different nurseries The causal organisms, disease symptoms, incidence periods and the extent of damage were studied in detail These are described here for the first time Prophylactic management of these nursery diseases is warranted