Adaptation and growth performance of different bamboo species in Dryland areas of Northern Ethiopia

Abstract

Bamboos are among the large perennial grasses that are renowned for their remarkable vigor and quick development. However, the amount of bamboo available in natural settings is decreasing as a result of shifting agriculture, overexploitation, and forest fires. Furthermore, there is little genetic diversity in our country because just two species are found in a small number of agroecological zones. This makes it difficult to guarantee a steady supply of bamboo, despite its benefits to the environment and economy. Thus, the goal of this study was to evaluate the adaptability and growth performance of four bamboo species: Oxytenanthera abyssinica (A.Rich.) Munro, Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J Houz, Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex J.C. Wendl, and B-ambusa bambos (L) Voss'. The study was carried out at the Mekelle Agricultural Research Center compound for four years, from 2020 to 2023. Three replications of a strict RCBD design were used in the experiment. There were four plants each plot, for a total of 48 plants, and there was a three-meter gap between each plant and plot. A range of growth indicators, including new shoot emergence, culm diameter, internode length, culm height, and survival rate, were measured at three-month intervals in order to monitor changes among the species. B. bambos, B. vulgaris, and O. abyssinica showed no problems with survival or adaptation in the research locations, with the exception of small growth variances. Significant changes (p≤ 0.05) in the treatment parameters were shown by the statistical analysis. O. abyssinica displayed a noticeably greater quantity of freshly emerging bamboo shoots in comparison to other bamboo species. Conversely, P. edulis showed the lowest growth metrics in terms of internode length, culm height, culm diameter, and survival rate. P. edulis, B. vulgaris, O. abyssinica, and B. bambos had survival rates of 16.67 percent, 66.67 percent, 75 percent, and 91.67 percent, respectively. It is noteworthy that seasonal differences have a substantial impact on the height of culms and the growth of newly emergent shoots. B. vulgaris, B. bambos, and O. abyssinica all showed good growth and survival rates. As a result, it is advised to highlight and promote these species in related agroecological areas, as this can benefit multiple stakeholders’ livelihoods and economies.