Nut Weevil Infestation Impact on Acorn Germination Potential in Ban Oak, Quercus leucotrichophora, in the Northwestern Himalayan Regions of India

Abstract

ABSTRACT Nut weevil (Curculio sikkimensis) is one of the major constraints in natural regeneration of ban oak (Quercus leucotricho-phora) in the northwestern Himalayan regions of India. A study on the incidence of this pest in relation to site elevation, time and method of acorn collection and impact on germination after testing the feasibility of scarification for increased nursery production revealed that the acorn infestation ranged between 25.5 to 41.2% on the tree crowns and > 50% on the forest floor. On the basis of categorization of acorn predation by this pest, acorn damage scored as 1 gave better germination (72%) than healthy acorns (65%) under laboratory conditions. Scarification (seed cut + hot water treatment) to the healthy and insect damaged acorns (scored up to 2nd category) maximized germination. This treatment stimulated germination even in acorns damaged up to 3rd category. The seed cut and hot water treatment, as separate treatments also yielded better germination compared with referen...