Fruiting Trees Research Articles

Genetic characterisation of Annona crassiflora as basis for conservation and breeding

Abstract Annona crassiflora is a fruit-bearing tree species native to the Cerrado that has ecological and economic potential, mainly due to the production of attractive and useful fruits for a number of species, including humans. To provide a basis for its conservation and breeding, the objective was to assess the diversity and genetic structure of natural populations of the species using inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) molecular markers. Eight populations were analysed in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, with 24 individuals randomly sampled in each population, reaching a total of 192 trees. Ten ISSR primers were used, resulting in high genetic diversity for the combined data (H* = 0.35 and I* = 0.52). However, a wide range of representative values was observed in the individual assessment of populations, with JAN, GM and MC standing out for their low genetic diversity, resulting in H* of 0.19, 0.23 and 0.24 and I* of 0.28, 0.34 and 0.35, respectively. An analysis of molecular variance showed greater variation within populations, indicating gene flow (Nm), but genetic differentiation between populations was moderate. Bayesian analysis, although resulting in four genetic groups, revealed the presence of a majority group for the GM and JAN populations. We propose measures to maintain these populations, such as raising awareness of local extractivism and planting genetically divergent seedlings. Furthermore, we recommend including of all populations in conservation and breeding programmes, aiming to cover the maximum genetic variation for the species.

Nutritional Value, Fatty Acid and Phytochemical Composition, and Antioxidant Properties of Mysore Fig (Ficus drupacea Thunb.) Fruits.

Ficus drupacea is a fruit-bearing tree that is distributed in Southeast Asia and Australia. The objective of this research was to ascertain the following with regard to ripened fruits: (i) their nutritional value, (ii) their mineral status, (iii) the fatty acid composition of fruit and seed oil, (iv) their phytochemical makeup, and (v) their antioxidant properties. The ripened fruits contained 3.21%, 3.25%, 0.92%, 1.47%, and 2.20% carbohydrate, protein, fat, ash, and fiber, respectively. Fruits had an energy content of 30.18 kcal/100 g. In terms of mineral content, the fruit was rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, and nitrogen, with values of 21.03, 13.24, 11.07, and 4.13 mg/g DW. Iron, zinc, manganese, and boron had values of 686.67, 124.33, 114.40, and 35.78 µg/g DW, respectively. The contents of oxalate and phytate were 14.44 and 2.8 mg/g FW, respectively. The fruit and seed oil content were 0.67 and 8.07%, respectively, and the oil's physicochemical properties were comparable to those of fig fruit and seed oils. Omega-3 (α-linolenic acid), omega-6 (linoleic acid), and omega-9 (oleic acid) fatty acids were abundant in the oils. Fruit extracts in acetone, methanol, and water have greater concentrations of phenolics, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, total antioxidant activity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays demonstrated increased antioxidant activities in close correlation with the higher concentrations of phenolics, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The results of this study demonstrate that the fruits of F. drupacea are a strong source of nutrients and phytochemicals, and they merit more investigation and thought for possible uses.

Differences in phenology across three trophic levels between two Afrotropical sites separated by four degrees latitude.

Birds time their life cycle events to favourable windows in environmental conditions. In tropical environments, where photoperiod variation is small, birds show high variability in the timing of life cycle stages, yet these species have been severely underrepresented in phenology research. Here, we investigated temporal patterns in bird life cycles and resource availability in two sites in tropical Africa: Weppa (Nigeria, 7° N) and Elat (Cameroon, 3° N). In these sites we captured common bulbuls (Pycnonotus barbatus), a widespread generalist, and recorded breeding and moult over a 12-month period. Simultaneously, we surveyed fruiting tree and arthropod abundance. Our aim was to quantify seasonal patterns in moult and breeding in bulbuls at both sites, and link them to fluctuations in local fruit and arthropod abundance and precipitation. Moult was more seasonal than breeding in both sites, and seasonality of both life cycle events was stronger in Nigeria than Cameroon. The peak timing for moult was 1.5 months earlier in Nigeria than Cameroon. Seasonal variation in abundance of fruiting trees and arthropods was different between sites, as were the associations with breeding and moulting. In Nigeria, we found a positive association between moult and arthropod abundance, and a negative one with fruiting tree abundance. In contrast, in Cameroon moult was associated with higher precipitation, while breeding occurred at times with higher fruit abundance. Our results provide evidence that, even in similar habitats separated by four degrees in latitude, seasonal patterns across three trophic levels are variable. Understanding links between environmental conditions and life cycle events can reveal potential vulnerabilities of tropical species, and guide conservation efforts.

Synthesis and structural affirmation of pubesamides A and B, monoterpene N-benzoyltyramides from white sapote (Casimiroa pubescens)

Pubesamides A and B are structurally unusual monoterpene N-benzoyltyramides isolated from Casimiroa pubescens, a tropical fruiting tree with known psychotropic properties. Herein we report the structural affirmation of both natural products through a chemical synthesis that features a Lewis-acid assisted cross-metathesis reaction between a 1,1-disubstituted alkene and a dienone in the presence of the Hoveyda-Grubbs second generation catalyst. Stereochemically pure samples of pubesamide A and B isomerise upon standing, suggesting they are both genuine natural products.

Journey and Experience of an Editor

I had been a member of the editorial board of the Journal of Saidu Medical College (JSMC) for the last 7 to 8 years. Looking back through this period, i grade it a pleasant experience. When I joined the team of JSMC, the journal was passing through its childhood to adulthood period. The hard work of registering it with Provincial Information Department and having the International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) number, already done as well as provisional recognition with Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC) was also accomplished. Yet a lot was still ahead and required as is usual with the scientific journals. I would like to appreciate the hard work of the pioneers and the struggle and commitment of the present team members, whose commitment has nurtured this young sibling to a fruitful tree. This journal is now indexed and registered with different national agencies like, Higher Education Commission, Pakistan category 'Y', College of Physician & Surgeon of Pakistan, Pakistan Scientific & Technological Information Centre, PakMediNet.com, and also has gained recognition at international level like; Member of Crossref to assign Digital Object Identifier (DOI) to each article, Following Creative Commons license for international acceptability, giving internationally recognized reviewer credits via Reviewer Credits.com, member of Eastern Mediterranean Association of Medical Editors (EMAME) and Index Medicus Eastern Mediterranean Region (IMEMR).

Estimation of pruning wastes and biochar production potential of Turkey

In agriculture-producing countries, pruning waste is obtained from fruit-bearing trees during the fruit-growing process. The present study aims to determine the potential of biochar of pruning wastes, obtained as a result of agricultural activities that have economic value. To the best of the author’s knowledge, no study has been conducted in Turkey to make a regional estimation of the biochar potential of pruning wastes. Biochar produced from waste provides the advantage of use in various fields, such as soil remediation and water and wastewater treatment. In this study, data on the number of trees bearing fruit (almond, apple, apricot, cherry, peach, pear, plum, and sour cherry) from the Turkish Statistical Institute were used based on the equations specified. First, the amount of pruning waste, then the usable pruning waste, and finally their biochar potential were calculated. It was estimated that the apple tree had the highest total biochar potential (41.5 thousand tons/year). Regarding the regions, the highest biochar potential was in the Central Anatolia Region for the apple tree (19.3 thousand tons), followed by the Eastern Anatolia Region for the apricot tree (13.6 thousand tons). The total biochar potential of pruning wastes from fruit-bearing trees in Turkey was estimated at 175 thousand tons for the year 2021.

Hornbill abundance and habitat relationships in a human-impacted protected area in the Indian Eastern Himalaya

Asian forest hornbills play an important functional role as seed dispersers. Three of the large-bodied hornbill species in the Eastern Himalaya are declining globally. To understand their global population status, it is important to obtain reliable abundance estimates across their range. Protected areas are the strongholds for hornbill species in the Eastern Himalaya but differ in degree of disturbances and human pressures. We estimated the abundances of four hornbill species (Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Rufous-necked Hornbill, and Oriental Pied-Hornbill) in the human-impacted Buxa Tiger Reserve in northern West Bengal. This is the first study in Asia to obtain abundance estimates of the hornbill species through comprehensive spatial coverage of the reserve. The densities of the three large-bodied species were low (< 1 bird per km2), while that of the small-bodied Oriental Pied hornbill was around 11 birds per km2. Abundance estimates ranged from a mean of 27 birds for the Rufous-necked Hornbill that is confined to the hilly areas to 161 for the Great Hornbill, 375 for the Wreathed Hornbill and 8050 for the Oriental Pied-Hornbill. Habitat quality was poor in most of the reserve with low tree density and basal area with only a few patches with higher tree density. Oriental Pied-Hornbills were associated with lower elevations and higher fruiting tree density. Despite the relatively low abundance of the large-bodied hornbill species, Buxa is an important site for hornbill conservation due to the presence of breeding populations and nests. While past and ongoing human pressures have resulted in habitat degradation, poaching pressures are low and hornbills are able to persist and breed in this landscape. Ecologically meaningful forest restoration with diverse native tree species is urgently needed to improve the habitat quality for hornbills and other wildlife.

Animal‐mediated seed dispersal and the demo‐genetic configuration across plant colonization gradients

Abstract Ecologists have long recognized that seed dispersal mutualisms trigger natural regeneration and range expansion of animal‐dispersed trees. Yet we lack empirical studies addressing whether frugivore activity influences founder effects, which reduce genetic diversity at the colonization front of expanding populations. Here, we evaluate the contribution, from both demographic and genetic perspectives, of animal frugivores dispersing seeds across an expansion gradient. We used DNA barcoding for frugivores identification and highly polymorphic genetic markers (SSRs) for maternal analysis of juniper seeds to investigate how (1) stand maturity, (2) microhabitat types and (3) foraging patterns shape the distribution of the maternal progenies along this gradient. We expect both reduced seed rain density and low numbers of source trees contributing to the seed rain at the colonization front, with limited availability of local fruiting trees. We also anticipated that large‐sized frugivore species would promote maternally rich seed rain due to their ability to mix seed progenies during digestive processing and move further distances across the landscape. Contrary to our expectations, we found that all identified frugivores produced dense and genetically diverse seed rains across the expansion gradient, even at the colonization front, characterized by scarce fruiting trees. Synthesis: Our findings shed light on the fundamental and applied implications of plant–frugivore interactions in shaping highly diverse second‐growth forests. These results emphasize the necessity of preserving plant–animal mutualistic interactions to ensure the persistence and expansion of natural tree populations, particularly in formerly fragmented landscapes

The Opportunity Cost Analysis of using Jack Fruit Timber as a Construction Material in Sri Lanka

&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; The miracle tree in the world is thought to be the jackfruit tree. Its fruit-bearing capacity was well- documented by history academics. However, jackfruit wood is also regarded as one of Sri Lanka's more expensive wood types. Instead of considering the quality of the actual lumber material, this is only dependent on its legendary value. It was not considered how much money the timber was worth. They are carelessly used as one of the finest luxury lumber materials, disregarding the fact that they were originally planted as fruit trees. In an effort to compare the true worth of jackfruit wood to the current palette of premium timber materials, this study was initiated. Thus, it will assist legislators in passing a new law that forbids Sri Lanka from using jackfruit trees as a source of lumber. First, a life cycle model was used to determine the yield value and market value of jackfruit timber. The perceived value of the timber and the yield were then contrasted with the timber's real market worth. The study discovered that, before the age of 50 years, the jack fruit tree's yield value was significantly higher than its timber value. Only Rs. 100,000.00 is the typical timber value anticipated from a jackfruit tree. Only eight years of average yield value are required to restore the value of the timber. In order to preserve the jack fruit tree as one of the top fruit-bearing trees in the world, a new policy should be developed to change the jack fruit tree cutting age to a minimum of 50 years.&#x0D; Keywords: Jack fruit tree, Yield value, Selling price, Timber value&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;

Utilization of Blackthorn Plums (Prunus spinosa) and Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium) Kernel Oil: Assessment of Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Activity, and Oxidative Stability

Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. are valuable fruit-bearing trees known for their bioactive compounds and medicinal properties. However, limited research exists regarding their kernel oils. This study aimed to compare the chemical composition, quality parameters, and bioactive potential of the kernel oils extracted from Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. The kernel oils’ fatty acid and tocopherol profiles were characterized, and the presence of bioactive compounds were identified and quantified. Total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (AAC) were also measured, indicating the presence of bioactive compounds in both oils. Additionally, the main quality parameters, including oxidative status, were evaluated. The fatty acid analysis revealed a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to monounsaturated fatty acids in both kernel oil samples. Linoleic acid (57–64%) and oleic acid (18–29%) were the major fatty acids in both Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. kernel oils. α-Eleostearic acid (11.87%) was quantified only in Prunus avium kernel oil. Furthermore, the α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherol content were determined, and it was found that both kernel oils contained γ-tocopherol as the major tocopherol (~204–237 mg/Kg). TPC in Prunus avium L. kernel oil was measured at 9.5 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/Kg and recorded as ~316% higher TPC than Prunus spinosa L. kernel oil. However, the recorded AAC were 11.87 and 14.22 μmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/Kg oil, respectively. Both oils recorded low peroxide values (~1.50 mmol H2O2/Kg), and low TBARS value (~0.4 mmol malondialdehyde equivalents, MDAE/Kg oil), but high p-anisidine value (23–32). The results indicated that both Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. kernel oils exhibited unique chemical compositions.

Formation of pollen of different quality in some fruit trees under the influence of technogenic pollution

This article focuses on investigating the impact of anthropogenic factors on fruit-bearing trees - specifically, apple, cherry, apricot, walnut, and quince - in urban environments. The study delves into the influence of technogenic pollution on these plant species, conducting an ecological comparison of heavy metal accumulation in plants situated in both polluted and relatively dusty environments. Through a comprehensive analysis of scientific data, the article provides valuable insights for biomonitoring and environmental protection. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the intricate interactions between urbanizationinduced pollution and plant life, offering crucial information that can inform measures for safeguarding the environment. The work represents a significant advancement in the realm of environmental science, shedding light on the ecological implications of human activities on the plant kingdom within urban landscapes.

Scion–Rootstock Combination Determines Pruning Responses in Young Almond Trees

Almond growers are seeking ways to reduce costs but maintain yield. Intensive planting systems with greater planting densities using trees on growth-controlling rootstocks, combined with mechanical pruning and shake-and-catch harvesting are becoming popular. In this study we examined the responses of six almond cultivars with distinctive architecture grafted onto five rootstocks with varying degrees of vigor control. Trees were planted in 2018 in a nursery row and left to grow without pruning until Winter 2021. Pruning involved a rudimentary hedging treatment akin to mechanical pruning. Branching and tree structure were recorded in 2020, before pruning, and again at the end of 2021, after one season’s growth following pruning. A rating system was developed to record qualitative data on central leader dominance and the number, length, basal diameter, and, in some cases, branching angle of axillary shoots and including scaffold branches. Relatively few changes were recorded in the basic growth habit of these trees in response to pruning. Before pruning, the most common rootstock effect was on axillary shoot production. After pruning, the most common rootstock effects were on scaffold branching and the length of subterminal axillary shoots. Further studies are required to determine how these differences produced by the interaction between pruning and rootstock may affect the productivity of fruit-bearing trees. Although in this study with young trees we were not able to record crop yield, the results highlight that it is mainly the scion–rootstock combination, with or without pruning, that determines the potential productivity of fruiting canopies. Scion–rootstock combinations that produce narrow upright canopies naturally with strong central leader dominance and highly branched canopies are preferred for superintensive growing systems with or without use of mechanical hedging.

The main indicators of body thickness, branch growth of intensive apple trees

This article examines personal methods of rejuvenating and normalizing pruning of zoned apple varieties on the growth dynamics of fruiting tree branches.It should be noted that at present, in intensive apple orchards, in order to obtain a constantly high yield of fruits with good qualities, attacking their entry into fruiting and harvesting from 2-3 years after planting them in a permanent place is the main requirement for a high yield of fruits.

Assessment of Secondary Metabolites and Thin-Layer Chromatographic Analysis of Carica papaya (Caricaceae) Leaves Ethanolic Extract

Carica papaya, also referred to as pawpaw, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree in the Caricaceae family. Papaya is one of the world's most extensively grown crops. Its fruits, seeds, and leaves are widely utilized in cooking and traditional medicine. Papaya leaf extract, tea, and juices are extensively used to cure ailments and promote health. The study aimed to quantify the presence of potential chemical compounds in Carica papaya leaves using Thin-Layer Chromatographic analysis (TLC). Standard qualitative phytochemical tests were performed on the leaves of C. papaya to determine the presence of various phytochemicals, and TLC analysis to ascertain the presence of potential chemical constituents. Extract of Carica papaya leaves in ethanol showed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, glycosides steroids, proteins, flavonoids, carbohydrates, etc., after the phytochemical screening, all of which are useful chemical ingredients responsible for a variety of pharmacological effects. The lack of color change noticed when the heated sample was treated with Fehling's solution revealed the absence of reducing sugar. TLC analysis using several solvent systems revealed the presence of potential chemical constituents with varying Rf values. This variance in the Rf values showed the phytochemicals and potential chemical constituents' polarity and this gave a hint on the type of solvent systems suitable for the analysis and separation of pure components. Hence, Carica papaya leaf extract contains a high concentration of both primary and secondary plant metabolites. TLC profiling yielded a good result, suggesting the existence of numerous possible chemical ingredients in the plant leaves used for the analysis.

Seed exploration on Nusakambangan Island to enrich seeds collection in Bogor Botanic Garden

Seed exploration is one of the conservation strategies used to enhance the collection of seeds as natural resources in the seed bank. In 2020, we explored Nusakambangan Island from the West Nusakambangan nature reserve area, Batar Panjang coast, to Kali Jati Riverbanks. The exploratory approach and direct fruit tree sampling were employed. This study seeks to collect and preserve plant seeds and discover their biological seed characteristics. Thirty-two (32) collection numbers were obtained, consisting of 22 families and 27 genera. Moraceae and Euphorbiaceae (4 species) have the most fruiting trees in this exploration. Ficus variegata, Mucuna gigantea, and Ziziphus horsfieldii are new Bogor Botanic Gardens database collections. Most seeds (75%) we collect are orthodox and suitable for long-term storage. In addition, the specimens are not endemic or endangered trees; few still need identification. Also, this study provides information on biological seed characteristics that facilitate seed conservation storage at Bogor Botanical Garden Seed Bank.

A GIS-Based Assessment of Land Cover Changes and Tree Species Suitability for Urban Greening Policies in the City of Kitwe, Zambia

Study objective and design A change vector analysis (CVA) was used to determine land cover (LC) changes and identify tree species that are best for urban greening based on carbon sequestration and air pollution. The study assessed LC change in Kitwe, Zambia, from 1990 to 2015. This study identified the most planted urban tree species along Kitwe’s main roads and highways and evaluated typical urban tree species’ pH, RWC, total chlorophyll, ascorbic acid, and biomass. Place and length of study The urban trees in Kitwe, Zambia, make up the study population. The city of Kitwe is a thriving centre for mining and commercial activities and is situated in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province. The investigation took place during 2018 and 2019. Methodology The NDVI and BSI indices were created using spectral indices created from Landsat images of Kitwe taken in 1990 and 2015, respectively. The size and direction of the LC were then determined using CVA, and a district database of land cover changes was constructed using GIS. Urban trees from the built-up area were utilised to create an inventory of common urban tree species based on the land cover classification. The anticipated performance index (API), which measures the suitability of tree species for improving air quality, and the air pollution tolerance index (APTI), which measures the suitability of tree species for urban greening, are two of the three assessment methods that were employed. In addition, above-ground biomass (AGB) was employed to quantify the carbon sequestration contribution of the current urban forest. Results The study discovered that between 1990 and 2015, mining activity and urban growth in Kitwe both contributed to changes in the area’s LC. While the central business district still exhibits a persistent presence as a result of the town’s age, having sprung up before the 1990s with more expansions in the new areas, areas being monitored showed low and medium change intensity, mostly in the northeast of the district. In the current investigation, there was a significant difference in the relative abundance of species (p = 0.05). In the study site, Mangifera indica (RA = 12.3%) and Delonix regia (RA = 15.9%) were the two most prevalent species. According to the study, eleven species were found, and each has accumulated carbon in a unique way throughout time depending on its allometry and age. These distinctions in physiological response (tolerance) to air pollution are noteworthy. Bauhinia variegata, Toona ciliate, Gmelina arborea, Eucalyptus grandis, and Delonix regia were all identified as suitable tree species. Conclusion Over the past 25 years, more than 50% of the land cover has changed, with the majority of that change occurring in regions that are now classified as built-up areas. The majority of Kitwe’s urban forests are found in the populated areas and are made up of a variety of ornamental trees that are frequently cultivated for their aesthetic value, attractiveness, and shade. According to the research, this mixture also includes opportunistic urban trees (invasive species) and fruit-bearing trees intermingled with native species. Overall, this study suggests the following species: For urban trees suited for greening programmes aimed at improving air quality and providing shade and beauty in green areas, residences, and sidewalks that have a low air pollution environment, consider Bauhinia variegata, Toona ciliate, Gmelina arborea, Eucalyptus grandis, and Delonix regia.

Towards Sustainable Abundance: The Advancements in Tamarind Production Technology

Tamarind, a tropical fruit-bearing tree, is essential for food, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. Advancements in tamarind production technology are needed to ensure sustainable cultivation and efficient processing. This review focuses on innovative cultivation practices, breeding strategies, pest management, post-harvest practices, and value addition. It explores intercropping, agroforestry, and water-efficient irrigation systems to maximize land utilization and water resources. Integrated pest management strategies, such as biological control and organic pesticides, are proposed to reduce chemical dependency, minimize environmental impact, and maintain ecological balance. Post-harvest technology, including innovative harvesting, cleaning, storage, and processing techniques, is evaluated to maintain product quality and shelf life. The review also examines the economic viability and value addition opportunities within the tamarind industry, identifying potential product diversification and reducing the carbon footprint.

Heavy browsing pressure by moose (Alces alces) can interfere with the objectives of ecosystem-based forest management

Forest management can enhance the ecosystem services forests provide, but it can also alter the capacity of forests to provide those services in the future. Ecosystem-based management has been widely implemented to mitigate the deterioration of forest ecosystems by reducing dissimilarities between managed and natural forests. Ecosystem-based management objectives generally aim to maintain community composition, stand structure, ecosystem functions and services. Heavy browsing pressure by ungulates at densities unrepresentative of past abundance could interfere with these objectives by chronically and selectively browsing tree regeneration following logging.Using a browsing exclusion experiment, we investigated how the effects of different moose browsing pressures on tree regeneration could interfere with ecosystem management objectives in boreal forests of Quebec, Canada. Management objectives in this region include, among others, reaching targeted coniferous trees densities for commercial harvest, favouring the conservation of birches (Betula spp.) to maintain soil quality and conserving fruit-bearing trees due to their ecological significance for biodiversity. We used path analyses to differentiate direct and indirect effects of moose on seedling density and mixed models to investigate how browsing affected sapling recruitment and whether resulting densities are compatible with ecosystem management objectives.By directly reducing the overall sapling density, moose browsing indirectly increased seedlings densities of all deciduous species. This indirect effect increased with browsing pressure and favoured raspberry cover, which was positively or negatively linked to seedling density, depending on tree species. Moderate and heavier browsing pressures reduced coniferous sapling density below the ecosystem management target. Moose suppressed birch saplings so that the minimal target of 50 birches ha−1 was not met under heavier browsing pressure. Sapling density of fruit-bearing trees was low under all browsing pressures when compared to exclosures.Policy implicationsHeavy moose browsing is preventing the achievement of ecosystem management objectives in our study area. Positive indirect effects on seedling densities suggest that reducing moose density could allow released seedlings to replenish the sapling layer, but we discuss why this would not guarantee reaching ecosystem management objectives. To help forest managers evaluate and respond to challenges posed by high ungulate densities, we suggest incorporating browsing inventories in national forest surveys to monitor this chronic disturbance and modulate decisions for forest ecosystem management.

Effect of extraction methods on phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of de-kernelled Sclerocarya birrea seeds.

Marula (Sclerocarya birrea) is an indigenous African fruit-bearing tree with many commercial uses; however, de-kernelled seeds generated from marula fruit-processing are wasted. The phytochemical constituents of de-kernelled marula seeds have not been investigated previously and its extract/tea may potentially serve as a promising source of antioxidants and phytochemicals. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different extraction methods (maceration and decoction) on the recovery of phenolic compounds, sugars, organic acids, and antioxidants from de-kernelled marula seeds. Extracts produced from decoction for 30 min contained the highest phenolic content (2253.93 ± 25.72 mg gallic acid equivalent kg-1 extract), flavonoid content (1020.99 ± 23.90 mg rutin equivalent kg-1 extract), as well as combined sugars and organic acids (1884.03 mg kg-1 extract). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups typically present in phenolic compounds, sugars, and organic acids in the extracts obtained from decoction. The characterization revealed that decoction extraction increased solubility, variety, and yield of phytochemical and antioxidant compounds recovered from de-kernelled marula seeds. The highest concentrations of phytochemicals were obtained using the decoction method. This study may therefore pave the way for extract composition and future utilization of de-kernelled marula seeds in the food industry. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Prospects for the use of Walnut and Poplar in agroforestry of Polissya and Forest-Steppe of Ukraine

Climate changes actualise the need for the transition of Ukraine’s agricultural business to agroforestry systems not only in the steppe but also in the northern regions of the country. The purpose of the study is to examine the features of creating protective stands of Walnut (Juglans regia L.) and Poplars (Populus × euramericana) in Polissya and in the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine. Experimental plantings of Walnut were created by one-year-old seedlings on sod-podzolic sandy loam soils of Zhytomyr Polissya and on carbonate soils of the Western Forest-Steppe, and the analysis of the survival rate of Poplar plantings was conducted on chernozems of the Right-Bank Forest-Steppe. It was established that on sod-podzolic soils, five-year-old plants of Walnut had an average height of 91.8 cm. At the age of 4, some of them bore fruit. The fruit-bearing trees had higher indicators of average height of 13.4% and a diameter of 71.5% compared to the rest. On carbonate soils, the trees showed substantially better growth in height, which is explained by the calciphile nature of the nut. It is determined that an effective way to increase the survival rate of one-year-old seedlings of Poplar varieties Dorskamp, Robusta and I-45/51 is to plant them without trunks. In all the examined varieties, during the first two years, the highest survival rate of seedlings was in the variant without a trunk – from 57.0 to 68.9%, while in seedlings with a trunk – from 50.3% to 68.1%. In 2022, due to irrigation, the survival rate ranged from 74.4% to 88.9%. The average height was mostly also higher in plants that grew from seedlings without a trunk. It was the largest in plants of the Dorskamp clone – 188.6 to 209.3 cm. In uncut plants of this variety, it ranged from 174.0 to 197.2 cm. The practical importance of the study lies in the possibility of developing new forms of Walnut and Poplar and improving technologies for creating forest lands with their involvement, which can be used in Polissya and Forest-Steppe conditions