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Keywords = Acacia auriculiformis

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21 pages, 3740 KiB  
Article
Mineral Condition Changes in Amended Soils and Woody Vegetation Installed on a Polluted Soil with Trace Metals in Lubumbashi (DR Congo): Results of a Four-Year Trial
by Serge Langunu, Jacques Kilela Mwanasomwe, Dieu-donné N’Tambwe Nghonda, Gilles Colinet and Mylor Ngoy Shutcha
Environments 2025, 12(7), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12070224 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 680
Abstract
The use of trees to revegetate urban areas contaminated by mining activity is a low-cost, low-maintenance technique, of which the success will depend on the plant species, planting methods, and geochemical processes at the soil-plant interface. This study analyzed the evolution of mineral [...] Read more.
The use of trees to revegetate urban areas contaminated by mining activity is a low-cost, low-maintenance technique, of which the success will depend on the plant species, planting methods, and geochemical processes at the soil-plant interface. This study analyzed the evolution of mineral composition in the rooting soil, tree, and herbaceous vegetation on soils contaminated by As, Cd, Cu, Co, Pb, and Zn. An in-situ experiment was carried out in Lubumbashi (South-eastern DR Congo) with six tree species (Acacia auriculiformis, Albizia lebbeck, Delonix regia, Leucaena leucocephala, Mangifera indica, and Syzygium guineense), in 0.187 m3 pits amended with municipal compost and limestone. After planting in the amended and unamended (control) pits, soil samples were taken for chemical analysis. Eighteen months after planting, a floristic inventory was carried out to assess the spontaneous colonization of herbaceous species. The results show an increase in metal concentrations in the rooting soil between 2019 and 2023 (Cu: 725 ± 136 to 6141 ± 1853 mg kg−1; As: 16.2 ± 1.4 to 95 ± 28.5 mg kg−1; Cd: 2.7 ± 1.3 to 8.7 ± 2.0 mg kg−1; Co: 151 ± 36.3 to 182 ± 113 mg kg−1; Zn: 558 ± 418 to 1098 ± 1037 mg kg−1), with a stable pH and a decrease in nutrients (P, K, Ca, and Fe). The trees planted in the amended pits showed better height and diameter growth and greater survival than the controls, reaching average heights of 8 m and a DBH of up to 22 cm four years after planting. A total of 13 spontaneous herbaceous species were recorded, with an increased abundance during the second inventory. These results confirm the effectiveness of pit amendment for the rapid revegetation of urban soils polluted by trace metals. Full article
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11 pages, 5443 KiB  
Article
Effective Bud Induction of Acacia mangium and A. auriculiformis Without KNO3 and NH4NO3 in Media
by Lin Sun, Yanping Lu and Liejian Huang
Plants 2025, 14(11), 1720; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14111720 - 5 Jun 2025
Viewed by 399
Abstract
Stem segments of Acacia mangium and A. auriculiformis containing full axillary buds were used to study the effects of reduced amounts of the main nitrogen source in the growth media. This condition, referred to as nitrogen deficiency in this article and denoted as [...] Read more.
Stem segments of Acacia mangium and A. auriculiformis containing full axillary buds were used to study the effects of reduced amounts of the main nitrogen source in the growth media. This condition, referred to as nitrogen deficiency in this article and denoted as -N, involved the omission of ammonium nitrate and potassium nitrate from MS media, and its impact on bud induction was assessed. The results show that in media lacking nitrogen, the bud induction rate, contamination rate, browning rate, stem length, and leaf number of induced buds of A. mangium and A. auriculiformis varied depending on the different culture media used. The optimal bud induction medium for A. mangium and A. auriculiformis was as follows: 1/4MS (-N) + 1.0 mg·L−1 6-BA + 0.2 g·L−1 chlorothalonil + 5 g·L−1 AGAR. The bud induction rates were 72.6% and 100.0%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the rooting rates of the induced buds between the -N treatment and the complete nutrient treatment. We found that the buds induced in the -N media did not show obvious symptoms of nitrogen deficiency, and their growth status was not significantly different from those induced in the complete nutrient media, which indicates that nitrogen is not essential for the bud induction of A. mangium and A. auriculiformis. The results of this study provide an important reference for conducting related research on other plants and have are greatly significant for the sustainable development of tissue culture technology in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sexual and Asexual Reproduction in Forest Plants)
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20 pages, 5374 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Dynamics of Trunk Sap Flow of Typical Tree Species in Dry and Hot Valleys and Responses to Environmental Factors
by Lingxiao Peng, Yongyu Sun, Zhenmin He, Xiangfei Li, Zhifeng Luo, Shan Zhou and Zhaorong Ou
Forests 2025, 16(3), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16030387 - 21 Feb 2025
Viewed by 727
Abstract
Trunk sap flow is essential for assessing plant water use efficiency and adaptation, yet the mechanisms underlying drought resistance and water utilization strategies in dry and hot valleys remain poorly understood. This study investigates the sap flow dynamics of four tree species ( [...] Read more.
Trunk sap flow is essential for assessing plant water use efficiency and adaptation, yet the mechanisms underlying drought resistance and water utilization strategies in dry and hot valleys remain poorly understood. This study investigates the sap flow dynamics of four tree species (Albizia kalkora, Diospyros dumetorum, Terminalia franchetii, and Acacia auriculiformis) in a dry and hot valley using Granier’s thermal diffusion probe method. The aims were to analyze interspecific differences and their response mechanisms to environmental factors using a fitted model of sap flow density and transpiration variables, supplemented by Pearson’s and Mantel’s tests. The results showed that (1) the trunk sap flow of each tree species is significantly higher in the wet season than in the dry season. (2) In the dry and wet seasons, the average trunk sap flow rates were in the order Albizia kalkora > Diospyros dumetorum > Terminalia franchetii > Acacia auriculiformis. (3) The correlation between environmental factors and trunk sap flow was in the order photosynthetically active radiation > atmospheric temperature > saturated water vapor pressure difference > relative humidity > wind speed. (4) Deciduous plants demonstrated stronger water-conducting capacities than evergreen plants and native plants exhibited better drought resistance than introduced plants. (5) Acacia auriculiformis and Albizia kalkora were identified as rainfall-sensitive plants, while Diospyros dumetorum and Terminalia franchetii were rainfall-insensitive. By optimizing species selection based on water use efficiency, rainfall sensitivity, and environmental conditions such as light and temperature, this research contributes to enhancing the stability and resilience of ecosystem restoration in arid regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
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18 pages, 5849 KiB  
Article
Growth, Productivity, and Nutrient Return of a Mixed Plantation of Fast-Growing Eucalyptus Hybrid and Acacia auriculiformis Trees in Thailand
by Jetsada Wongprom, Narinthorn Jumwong, Pattama Sangvisitpirom, Sapit Diloksumpun and La-ongdao Thaopimai
Forests 2025, 16(1), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16010182 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1604
Abstract
Mixed-species plantations involving Eucalyptus and Acacia trees are an effective alternative for managing sustainable plantations. In this study, we evaluated the growth, productivity, nutrient return, and soil properties of a mixed Eucalyptus hybrid (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. × E. urophylla S.T. Blake; E) and [...] Read more.
Mixed-species plantations involving Eucalyptus and Acacia trees are an effective alternative for managing sustainable plantations. In this study, we evaluated the growth, productivity, nutrient return, and soil properties of a mixed Eucalyptus hybrid (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. × E. urophylla S.T. Blake; E) and Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Benth. plantation (A) and Eucalyptus hybrid and A. auriculiformis plantations. The mixed Eucalyptus hybrid and A. auriculiformis plantation included three ratios at E33:A67, E50:A50, and E67:A33, while the Eucalyptus (E100) and A. auriculiformis (A100) plantations were established on degraded lands in the Had Wanakorn Forestry Research and Student Training Station, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, Thailand. Three replications within a plot size of 20 × 20 m2 were designed to plant Eucalyptus hybrid and A. auriculiformis seedlings at a spacing of 2 × 3 m2. The diameters at breast height (DBH) and height (H) of the Eucalyptus hybrid and A. auriculiformis were measured and monitored after planting for five years. The aboveground biomass of the five-year-old mixed and monoculture plantations was then estimated. Litterfall production and nutrient return from the mixed and monoculture plantations were measured for three years. In addition, soil samples at depths of 0–5, 5–10, and 10–20 cm were collected to analyze the soil’s chemical properties. Differences in growth, aboveground biomass, litterfall production, nutrient return, and soil properties were analyzed and tested using Tukey’s HSD. The results indicated that both the DBH and H of the Eucalyptus hybrid in the mixed and monoculture plantations were not significantly different (p > 0.05). Similarly, the DBH and H of A. auriculiformis in each treatment were also not significantly different (p > 0.05). However, the DBH and H of the Eucalyptus hybrid were higher than those of A. auriculiformis. The aboveground biomass for the mixed plantation ratios E50:A50, E100, E67:A33, and E33:A67 was not significantly different, while the stem biomass was the highest in E100. Litterfall production was influenced by the proportion of the Eucalyptus hybrid relative to A. auriculiformis, but the monoculture A100 plantation had the highest litter production. The nitrogen return estimated for the mixed plantation was between A100 and E100. Similarly, the total nitrogen in the topsoil (0–5 cm) of the mixed plantation was higher than that in the monoculture E100 plantation. These results indicate that mixing A. auriculiformis with Eucalyptus can improve soil nutrients and nutrient cycling and increase nutrient returns, suggesting that mixed plantations are an effective option for sustainable plantation management and can mitigate the negative environmental impacts of Eucalyptus monocultures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Stand and Biomass Management)
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15 pages, 4201 KiB  
Article
Species and Stand Management Options for Wood Production from Small Grower Plantations in Central Vietnam
by Christopher E. Harwood, Le Xuan Toan, Pham Xuan Dinh and E. K. Sadanandan Nambiar
Forests 2024, 15(8), 1465; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15081465 - 21 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1469
Abstract
Acacia hybrid (Acacia mangium Willd. × A. auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth.) dominates plantation wood production in central Vietnam. Dependence on a single species may increase biological risks. The potential of eucalypt as an alternative was examined by comparing the growth and [...] Read more.
Acacia hybrid (Acacia mangium Willd. × A. auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth.) dominates plantation wood production in central Vietnam. Dependence on a single species may increase biological risks. The potential of eucalypt as an alternative was examined by comparing the growth and survival of acacia hybrid and eucalypt hybrid (Eucalyptus urophylla S.T. Blake × E. pellita F. Muell.) clones in Quang Tri province at three planting densities (1333, 1667 and 2222 trees ha−1). The experiment was planted on an eroded shallow soil common in the region. At age 5 years, survival of acacia (74%) was higher than that of eucalypt (67%), a consequence of high mortality from wind damage for one eucalypt clone. Eucalypt was taller by about 2 m, but stem diameters of acacia and eucalypt were very similar. For both taxa, diameter decreased significantly as planting density increased. Across planting densities, mean standing volume was 107 and 108 m3 ha−1 for acacia and eucalyptus, respectively. Linear regressions of stocking at 5 years on volume accounted for over half of the variance in acacia and eucalypt plot volumes, demonstrating the strong effect of stocking on yield. There were similarly strong effects of stocking on stem diameter. Acacia hybrid plantations of nearby small growers had stockings at age 5 years that averaged over 2500 stems ha−1. Growers planted at higher densities and allowed their trees to multi-stem. Their standing volumes at age 5 years ranged from 83 to 102 m3 ha−1. Understanding how to reduce tree mortality would assist growers to choose planting densities and stand management that optimise growth, log diameter classes and net returns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics and Molecular Biology)
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17 pages, 5590 KiB  
Article
The Restoration of Degraded Landscapes along the Urban–Rural Gradient of Lubumbashi City (Democratic Republic of the Congo) by Acacia auriculiformis Plantations: Their Spatial Dynamics and Impact on Plant Diversity
by Yannick Useni Sikuzani, Héritier Khoji Muteya, Jonas Yona Mleci, Médard Mpanda Mukenza, François Malaisse and Jan Bogaert
Ecologies 2024, 5(1), 25-41; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecologies5010002 - 14 Jan 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2578
Abstract
This study examines the spatio-temporal dynamics of Acacia auriculiformis in Lubumbashi city, southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, in the context of rapid urbanization following the liberalization of the mining sector. The city has experienced significant demographic growth and unplanned spatial expansion, resulting in [...] Read more.
This study examines the spatio-temporal dynamics of Acacia auriculiformis in Lubumbashi city, southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, in the context of rapid urbanization following the liberalization of the mining sector. The city has experienced significant demographic growth and unplanned spatial expansion, resulting in a decrease in vegetation cover. The introduction and proliferation of A. auriculiformis, an exotic tree species, have occurred without strategic planning or monitoring. Utilizing digitized remote sensing imagery from 2006, 2014, and 2021, we quantified the expansion of A. auriculiformis along the urban–rural gradient. Additionally, a floristic inventory conducted in 2021 provided insights into tree diversity within A. auriculiformis plantations. Our findings indicate a substantial increase in the number and area of A. auriculiformis patches, predominantly in urban zones. However, the patch values, highest in 2006, were shown to decline by 2021, especially in urban areas. The floristic inventory identified 39 tree species within A. auriculiformis plantations, including predominant species such as Albizia lebbeck, Albizia alba, and Leucaena leucocephala. Notably, 20 of these species are exotic, with half being invasive. In contrast, the 19 indigenous species were primarily found in peri-urban areas. While a greater number of tree species were observed in urban zones, larger average diameters were recorded in peri-urban zones. The persistence and expansion of A. auriculiformis in a landscape characterized by declining tree cover suggest its potential sustainability in this setting. However, A. auriculiformis plantations have facilitated the establishment of predominantly exotic and potentially invasive species. These findings highlight the need for the strategic management of A. auriculiformis and associated exotic flora to mitigate their spread and to consider their role in the restoration of degraded lands. Full article
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11 pages, 2097 KiB  
Article
Coppicing Abilities of Decapitated Elite Tree Trunks of Selected Acacia Species Genotypes in Mixed-Species Plantation
by Sures Kumar Muniandi, Norwati Muhammad, Farah Fazwa Md Ariff and Yaghoob Taheri
Forests 2024, 15(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15010009 - 20 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1990
Abstract
Maturation-related loss in the shooting and rooting ability of a species through macro or micropropagation techniques has been a limiting factor in any forest tree improvement program. The rejuvenation capacity of mature elite trees of Acacia mangium, Acacia crassicarpa, Acacia auriculiformis [...] Read more.
Maturation-related loss in the shooting and rooting ability of a species through macro or micropropagation techniques has been a limiting factor in any forest tree improvement program. The rejuvenation capacity of mature elite trees of Acacia mangium, Acacia crassicarpa, Acacia auriculiformis, and Acacia aulococarpa was investigated by evaluating the sprouting ability of decapitated trunks. Thus, a total of 120 trees were selected based on their superior phenotypic characteristics from four provenance and five progenies of each species, and trunks of the elite trees were decapitated into two different height groups to induce coppicing from the collar and base of the trunk. Coppicing ability varies with species, provenance, progeny, and cutting height. A. auriculiformis was the easiest to produce shoots by having the highest shooting percentage (84%) and the number of shoots per trunk (13.5), followed by A. mangium (75%) and A. aulococarpa (40%). The total shoot number increased significantly with the increase in the height of the stumps. Data indicated that there is a possibility to rejuvenate matured cutting through coppicing in the natural environment. This study will help in the standardization of the stumping procedure for the rejuvenation of elite Acacia genotypes while simultaneously assisting in preserving germplasm through clonal propagation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
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19 pages, 6620 KiB  
Article
Kinshasa Province (Democratic Republic of Congo): Typology of Peri-Urban Ecosystems Providing Edible Insects
by Célestin Adeito Mavunda, Madjouma Kanda, Fousséni Folega, Demirel Maza-esso Bawa, Bilouktime Badjare, John Katembo Mukirania, Marra Dourma and Koffi Akpagana
Sustainability 2023, 15(15), 11823; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151511823 - 1 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1972
Abstract
Tropical peri-urban ecosystems are essential for the urban population’s well-being through the goods and services they provide. Unfortunately, these ecosystems are subjected to anthropogenic pressures for various reasons. This study aims to assess the diversity and structure of the peri-urban ecosystems that provide [...] Read more.
Tropical peri-urban ecosystems are essential for the urban population’s well-being through the goods and services they provide. Unfortunately, these ecosystems are subjected to anthropogenic pressures for various reasons. This study aims to assess the diversity and structure of the peri-urban ecosystems that provide the most edible insects in Kinshasa. A total of 360 people were interviewed to identify the two insect species most frequently consumed. The tree inventory was carried out in 50 plots (2500 m2 each), of which 25 were in Acacia plantations, 10 were planted Milletia forests, and 15 were natural Millettia forests. The diameters of each tree, dbh ≥ 10 cm, were measured. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to distinguish the forest communities. Diversity indices were used to assess floristic variability and structural parameters were used to characterize forest stands. Two insects were identified as being the most commonly consumed in Kinshasa: Gonimbrasia jamesoni (28%) and Cirina forda (27%), found the in Acacia plantation, and in the planted Milletia forests and natural Milletti forest, respectively. The results indicate floristic (higher in the Acacia plantation) and structural variability between stands. The structure of the stands indicates good news for all forests, except the planted forest. The high frequency/dominance of A. auriculiformis and M. laurentii in the peri-urban ecosystems of Kinshasa would therefore be optimal conditions (under natural conditions) for good production of these two caterpillar species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services for Environmental Sustainability)
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16 pages, 840 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Selected Medicinal, Timber and Ornamental Legume Species’ Seed Oils as Sources of Bioactive Lipophilic Compounds
by Anna Grygier, Suryakant Chakradhari, Katarzyna Ratusz, Magdalena Rudzińska, Khageshwar Singh Patel, Danija Lazdiņa, Dalija Segliņa and Paweł Górnaś
Molecules 2023, 28(10), 3994; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28103994 - 9 May 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2827
Abstract
Bioactive lipophilic compounds were investigated in 14 leguminous tree species of timber, agroforestry, medicinal or ornamental use but little industrial significance to elucidate their potential in food additive and supplement production. The tree species investigated were: Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia concinna, Albizia [...] Read more.
Bioactive lipophilic compounds were investigated in 14 leguminous tree species of timber, agroforestry, medicinal or ornamental use but little industrial significance to elucidate their potential in food additive and supplement production. The tree species investigated were: Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia concinna, Albizia lebbeck, Albizia odoratissima, Bauhinia racemosa, Cassia fistula, Dalbergia latifolia, Delonix regia, Entada phaseoloides, Hardwickia binata, Peltophorum pterocarpum, Senegalia catechu, Sesbania sesban and Vachellia nilotica. The hexane-extracted oils of ripe seeds were chromatographically analysed for their fatty acid composition (GC-MS), tocochromanol (RP-HPLC/FLD), squalene and sterol (GC-FID) content. A spectrophotometrical method was used to determine total carotenoid content. The results showed generally low oil yield (1.75–17.53%); the highest was from H. binata. Linoleic acid constituted the largest proportion in all samples (40.78 to 62.28% of total fatty acids), followed by oleic (14.57–34.30%) and palmitic (5.14–23.04%) acid. The total tocochromanol content ranged from 100.3 to 367.6 mg 100 g−1 oil. D. regia was the richest and the only to contain significant amount of tocotrienols while other oils contained almost exclusively tocopherols, dominated by either α-tocopherol or γ-tocopherol. The total carotenoid content was highest in A. auriculiformis (23.77 mg 100 g−1), S. sesban (23.57 mg 100 g−1) and A. odoratissima (20.37 mg 100 g−1), and ranged from 0.7 to 23.7 mg 100 g−1 oil. The total sterol content ranged from 240.84 to 2543 mg 100 g−1; A. concinna seed oil was the richest by a wide margin; however, its oil yield was very low (1.75%). Either β-sitosterol or Δ5-stigmasterol dominated the sterol fraction. Only C. fistula oil contained a significant amount of squalene (303.1 mg 100 g−1) but was limited by the low oil yield as an industrial source of squalene. In conclusion, A. auriculiformis seeds may hold potential for the production of carotenoid-rich oil, and H. binata seed oil has relatively high yield and tocopherol content, marking it as a potential source of these compounds. Full article
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15 pages, 2550 KiB  
Article
Effects of Tree Functional Traits on Soil Respiration in Tropical Forest Plantations
by Natthapong Ontong, Roongreang Poolsiri, Sapit Diloksumpun, Duriya Staporn and Michael Jenke
Forests 2023, 14(4), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14040715 - 31 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2151
Abstract
Fast-growing tree species, including Eucalyptus sp. and Acacia sp., are widely used to rehabilitate degraded tropical forestland quickly, while mitigating climate change. However, the extent of carbon losses through soil respiration (RS) often remains unknown. Moreover, the promotion of these [...] Read more.
Fast-growing tree species, including Eucalyptus sp. and Acacia sp., are widely used to rehabilitate degraded tropical forestland quickly, while mitigating climate change. However, the extent of carbon losses through soil respiration (RS) often remains unknown. Moreover, the promotion of these non-native species has raised concerns over their impact on other ecosystem services, including N2-fixation-induced soil acidification and nutrient cycling. This study compared two non-native and native species, with one of each being N2-fixing, growing in 11-year-old monospecific plantations in NE Thailand. Hourly RS was measured monthly over one year and combined with stand characteristics, as well as soil microclimatic and chemical properties. Mixed-effects models were used to capture this hierarchical, diurnal, and seasonal dataset. RS rates were influenced by soil temperature and moisture following a parabolic relation, and negatively affected by acidity. Overall, RS varied significantly according to species-specific microclimates and productivity. Despite the high input of organic matter, non-native species failed to ameliorate extreme soil moisture or temperature; limiting microbial decomposition and reducing RS. Hopea odorata produced moderate levels of carbon sequestration, but maintained soil fertility. The choice of tree species can significantly affect carbon sequestration and storage, as well as nutrient cycling, and careful species selection could optimize these ecosystem services. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management and Restoration of Post-disturbance Forests)
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27 pages, 8353 KiB  
Article
Land Evaluation for Acacia (Acacia mangium × Acacia auriculiformis) Plantations in the Mountainous Regions of Central Vietnam
by Tung Gia Pham, Chau Thi Minh Tran, Hai Thi Nguyen, Ha Ngan Trinh, Ngoc Bich Nguyen, Ha Khoa Ngoc Nguyen, Tan Trong Tran, Huy Dinh Le and Quy Ngoc Phuong Le
Land 2022, 11(12), 2184; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11122184 - 1 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3268
Abstract
In recent years, both scientists and local governments have been giving serious attention to land evaluation, especially in regard to the use of agricultural land. This is with the intention of increasing the sustainability of agricultural production. In Vietnam, acacia plantations play an [...] Read more.
In recent years, both scientists and local governments have been giving serious attention to land evaluation, especially in regard to the use of agricultural land. This is with the intention of increasing the sustainability of agricultural production. In Vietnam, acacia plantations play an important role in the livelihoods of farmers in mountainous regions. Therefore, identifying suitable areas for acacia plantations is an important consideration within mountainous areas. This research was conducted in Nam Dong district, Central Vietnam, using six physical soil criteria for land evaluation by the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and also the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP). The results have shown that the ranking of selected criteria in both methods was the same, but the weighting of each criterion was different. Among the six physical soil criteria, soil depth has the highest priority, followed by slope, soil organic carbon content, soil texture, soil pH, and soil type. The suitability maps for acacia plantations within the area studied have shown that 9344 ha were not suitable, and 99 ha had low suitability for acacia plantation by both methods. For the AHP approach, 928 hectares were in the range of moderate suitability, and 3080 hectares were in the high suitability class. In contrast, the FAHP method determined 905 hectares to be of the moderate suitability class and 3102 hectares to be of the high suitability class. Based on the observed acacia’s productivity and the scores of the two methods, it shows that the FAHP has a stronger correlation than the of AHP. Within the six selected criteria, the FAHP method can increase the accuracy of land evaluation results by 4.62% in comparison to the original AHP method. Therefore, the FAHP is the most suitable method for land evaluation, especially for agricultural land planning. Further studies should be integrated into more social and economic criteria for comprehensive land evaluation scenarios. Full article
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14 pages, 1411 KiB  
Article
Improved Clonal Propagation through Rejuvenation of Mature Branch Cutting of Four Important Acacia Species
by Sures Kumar Muniandi, Norwati Muhammad, Farah Fazwa Md Ariff and Yaghoob Taheri
Forests 2022, 13(9), 1403; https://doi.org/10.3390/f13091403 - 1 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3103
Abstract
Asexual propagation techniques for producing good quality germplasm for breeding and dissemination purposes have proven difficult for acacia species comprised of mature planting material. The study was conducted to study the effect of rejuvenation on the rooting ability of mature cuttings. Shoots were [...] Read more.
Asexual propagation techniques for producing good quality germplasm for breeding and dissemination purposes have proven difficult for acacia species comprised of mature planting material. The study was conducted to study the effect of rejuvenation on the rooting ability of mature cuttings. Shoots were induced from the lower branch by cutting a part of the mature branch of the crown and leaving it horizontally on the propagation bench under the misting system. Shoots were harvested and further used as stem cuttings to evaluate their rooting ability through the application of rooting hormone. The rooting ability of the cuttings is highly variable among species. The percentage of stem sections producing juvenile shoots was similar for Acacia mangium Willd. (88%) and Acacia auriculiformis A.Cunn. ex Benth. (90%). Only 52% of stem sections were able to produce shoots for Acacia crassicarpa A.Cunn. ex Benth., followed by Acacia aulococarpa A.Cunn. ex Benth. with only 31%. Overall, A. auriculiformis rooted better and recorded the highest mean value for all traits tested. Hormone treatment significantly enhances the rooting ability of A. auriculiformis and A. mangium. However, A. aulococarpa and A. crassicarpa did not respond well to the treatment. Rejuvenated stem cuttings were rooted better than mature cuttings, producing the highest mean value for all traits tested in all species, with or without hormone treatment. Results indicated that it is possible to rejuvenate mature cuttings through bud break in a controlled environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
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21 pages, 3038 KiB  
Article
Effect of the Co-Application of Eucalyptus Wood Biochar and Chemical Fertilizer for the Remediation of Multimetal (Cr, Zn, Ni, and Co) Contaminated Soil
by Subhash Chandra, Isha Medha, Jayanta Bhattacharya, Kumar Raja Vanapalli and Biswajit Samal
Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7266; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127266 - 14 Jun 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3447
Abstract
Contamination of soil with heavy metals is a worldwide problem, which causes heavy metals to release into the environment. Remediation of such contaminated soil is essential to protect the environment. The aims of this study are: first, to compare the effect of biochar [...] Read more.
Contamination of soil with heavy metals is a worldwide problem, which causes heavy metals to release into the environment. Remediation of such contaminated soil is essential to protect the environment. The aims of this study are: first, to compare the effect of biochar and the joint application of biochar with fertilizer for the phytoremediation of heavy metals-contaminated soil using Acacia auriculiformis; second, to study the effect of the application rate of biochar in improving the physicochemical properties of the soil. The soil samples were collected from an active coal mine dump and assessed for their physicochemical properties and heavy metals toxicity. Initial results indicated that the soil has poor physicochemical properties and was contaminated with the presence of heavy metals such as Zn, Ni, Cu, Cr, and Co. Later, the heavy metals-contaminated soil was mixed with the 400 and 600 °C biochar, as well as the respective biochar–fertilizer combination in varying mixing ratios from 0.5 to 5% (w/w) and subjected to a pot-culture study. The results showed that the application of both varieties of biochar in combination with fertilizer substantially improved the physicochemical properties and reduced the heavy metals toxicity in the soil. The biochar and fertilizer joint application also substantially improved the soil physiochemical properties by increasing the application rate of both varieties of biochar from 0.5 to 5%. The soil fertility index (SFI) of the biochar and biochar–fertilizer amended soil increased by 49.46 and 52.22%, respectively. The plant’s physiological analysis results indicated a substantial increase in the plant’s shoot and root biomass through the application of biochar and biochar–fertilizer compared to the control. On the other hand, it significantly reduced the heavy metals accumulation and, hence, the secretion of proline and glutathione hormones in the plant cells. Therefore, it can be concluded that the joint application of biochar with the application rate varying between 2.5 to 5% (w/w) with the fertilizer significantly improved the physicochemical properties of the soil and reduced the heavy metals toxicity compared to the controlled study. Full article
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19 pages, 1278 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Street Tree Diversity, Structure and Protection in Planned and Unplanned Neighborhoods of Lubumbashi City (DR Congo)
by Yannick Useni Sikuzani, Alex Mpibwe Kalenga, Jonas Yona Mleci, Dieudonné N’Tambwe Nghonda, François Malaisse and Jan Bogaert
Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 3830; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14073830 - 24 Mar 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3716
Abstract
Street trees are always considered a vital part of urban green infrastructure in urbanized areas through mitigating the negative effects caused by urbanization taking part in human well-being. However, little is still known about their diversity, structure and protection, mostly in Lubumbashi city [...] Read more.
Street trees are always considered a vital part of urban green infrastructure in urbanized areas through mitigating the negative effects caused by urbanization taking part in human well-being. However, little is still known about their diversity, structure and protection, mostly in Lubumbashi city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), where the pace of urbanization is not only rapid but also unplanned. In this study, using an inventory, we have characterized the diversity, structure and protection measures of street trees along a land-use planning gradient in Lubumbashi for both planned and unplanned neighborhoods. From the results, a total of 1596 trees were encountered, comprising 40 species, 33 genera and 17 families, mostly dominated by exotic species (65%). In addition, most of the studied trees (63%) belonged to four species only (Jacaranda mimosifolia, Leucaena leucocephala, Mangifera indica, and Acacia auriculiformis) with Leucaena leucocephala and Jacaranda mimosifolia being highly represented in unplanned and planned neighborhoods, respectively. The most abundant diameter classes in the planned neighborhoods were those with at most 10 cm against the classes larger than 50 cm in the planned neighborhoods. In both neighborhoods, trees with protection equipment represent less than 35%. Furthermore, in planned neighborhoods notably, nearly half of the observed equipment is in a good condition. Despite the benefits associated with street trees, there is a need to reduce the proportion of exotic tree species by planting native utilitarian tree species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Forestry and Ecology)
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16 pages, 4477 KiB  
Article
Reforestation of Degraded Landscapes in Micronesia
by James B. Friday, Diane L. Haase, Ruddy Estoy, James Manglona and Ryan Talken
Land 2021, 10(9), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/land10090926 - 3 Sep 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3380
Abstract
Wildfires on degraded grasslands cause extensive soil erosion and cause environmental and economic damage worldwide. We conducted fertilizer, lime, and mulch trials to improve growth of trees planted in acid soils in degraded grasslands on the Micronesian islands of Guam, Rota, and Yap. [...] Read more.
Wildfires on degraded grasslands cause extensive soil erosion and cause environmental and economic damage worldwide. We conducted fertilizer, lime, and mulch trials to improve growth of trees planted in acid soils in degraded grasslands on the Micronesian islands of Guam, Rota, and Yap. Fertilizer application had no effect on height growth of Acacia auriculiformis seedlings on a Mollisol on Guam while lime application had a small but significant positive effect on height growth. Fertilizer application had a significant positive effect on height growth of Acacia confusa seedlings planted on an Oxisol on Rota but lime had no effect. Mulch application increased height growth of Swietenia macrophylla seedlings planted on an Oxisol on Yap but lime application had no effect. Collaboration between university researchers and local forestry agencies can improve reforestation success, but researchers need to consider local capabilities and local knowledge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forest Landscape Restoration: Strategies, Challenges, and Impacts)
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