PROSOPIS CINERARIA (L.) DRUCE IN SILVIPASTORAL SYSTEM OF ARID REGIONS OF WESTERN RAJASTHAN

摘要

Among native and exotic species of genus Prosopis, P. cineraria has been proved ideal for adoption in silvipastoral system in arid and semi-arid regions of India. Introduction of Cenchrus ciliaris pasture between tree rows of P. cineraria, added 2.0 to 2.5 t/ha dry forage yield to the system. Lopping of trees in December gave an average 0.4 kg/tree top feed and 6-8 kg fuel production. The system was quite compatable as there were not much variations in forage yield under tree canopy when compared with pure pasture plot yield. Moreover, soil analysis under tree canopy also revealed better fertility conditbn over open field. Woody component in this silvipastoral model has potential to contribute 3.2 to 4.0 t/ha fuel wood and 160 to 240 kg/ha top feedon an annual basis.