Uttara Kannada District Research Articles

Characterization of Fruit, Seed Traits and Seedling Growth Performance of Different Seed Sources of Calophyllum inophyllum

Calophyllum inophyllum is an oil-bearing tree species with seeds containing 50-70 per cent oil, mainly used for non-edible purposes. Belonging to the Clusiaceae family, it is commonly known as Undi in Kannada. This littoral tropical tree grows above the high-tide mark along coastlines and is frequently found on sandy beaches. Its prominence has increased due to high demand as biofuel and commercialization. The study aimed to examine the fruit and seed traits from various sources and the impact of seed source variation on germination and seedling growth of Calophyllum inophyllum. Experiments were conducted at the College of Forestry, Sirsi, with fruits collected from seven different regions from coastal taluks of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka. Data on fruit, seed, and plant parameters were recorded. Results revealed that there was no such statistically significant difference was observed in fruit parameters, seed parameters, seedling parameters and germination percentage of Callophyllum inophyllum among the selected seed sources inferring no greater variations. However, the seeds from the Ramangindi (48.66%, 17% higher than the next best region, Ankola) region in Kumta taluk performed better in germination of seeds, fruit and seed traits, as well as growth compared to other sources.

Geoinformatics and Modeling Approaches for Estimating Above-Ground Biomass in the Moist Deciduous Forests of Uttara Kannada, Karnataka, India

The present study aims to estimate Above-Ground Biomass (AGB) in the moist deciduous forests of Mundgod Taluk, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, India using a combination of field sampling and remote sensing techniques. AGB was assessed using Sentinel-2A satellite imagery with a spatial resolution of 10 meters. Field data were collected using the Point-Centered Quarter (PCQ) method, it includes measuring tree girth at breast height (GBH), tree height, and canopy density. AGB was calculated using artificial form factor and specific gravity of tree species and further modelled using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) derived from satellite data. The results showed a significant correlation between canopy density and biomass, with very dense forests exhibiting the highest AGB values. The field-measured AGB was 436.96 t/ha for very dense forests, 259.89 t/ha for moderately dense forests, and 161.67 t/ha for open forests. A linear regression model developed between AGB and NDVI showed a high R² value of 0.91 for open forests, 0.87 for moderately dense forests, and 0.85 for very dense forests. The total area-weighted biomass for the study area was estimated at 8.87 million tons, with 4.79 million tons in very dense forests, 3.44 million tons in moderately dense forests, and 0.76 million tons in open forests. The regression model validation indicated low Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values, with the moderately dense forests 8.81 t/ha and the in very dense forests 7.54 t/ha. This study highlights the effectiveness of integrating field measurements with remote sensing for rapid, reliable AGB estimation. The approach offers valuable insights into biomass distribution and carbon sequestration potential, providing a scalable method for carbon inventories at state and national levels, contributing to forest management and climate change mitigation efforts.

Effect of Different Altitudinal Zones on Growth Parameters of Garcinia indica (Choisy) in Uttara Kannada, Karnataka, India

This study examines the impact of altitudinal variation on the growth of Garcinia indica in Agro-climatic Zone-9 of Karnataka, specifically in the Uttara Kannada district of the Western Ghats. Eight experimental sites, categorized into four altitudinal zones (Plains, Up-ghat, Mid-ghat, and Coastal), were analyzed for tree height, girth, and crown diameter. Results show significant growth variations, with the Up-ghat zone having the highest mean tree height (10.73 m), the Coastal zone showing the largest girth (69.67 cm), and the Mid-ghat zone exhibiting the widest crown diameter (7.08 m). Four type of canopy found viz., Pyramidal, Full-crowned, Weeping and Spreading. These growth differences are influenced by environmental factors such as rainfall, humidity, and light availability, which are more favourable in higher altitude regions. The findings have practical implications for commercial Garcinia indica cultivation, indicating plains and up-ghat as optimal for higher productivity. Understanding these growth patterns supports sustainable harvesting and improved yields for industries using kokum butter and extracts.

Empowerment of Fisherwomen Involved in Post-Harvest Activities of Marine Fisheries in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka

Empowerment of Fisherwomen Involved in Post-Harvest Activities of Marine Fisheries in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka

Assessing forest type variability in the Yellapur forest division of Uttara Kannada district, using a remote sensing approach

Assessing forest type variability in the Yellapur forest division of Uttara Kannada district, using a remote sensing approach

Quantification of forest degradation in different forest types of Yellapur forest division of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka

Quantification of forest degradation in different forest types of Yellapur forest division of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka

A study to evaluate the effectiveness of self-instructional module on knowledge regarding first aid management of snake bite among selected PU college students at Ankola, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka

A study to evaluate the effectiveness of self-instructional module on knowledge regarding first aid management of snake bite among selected PU college students at Ankola, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka

Comparative account and diversity of lower and higher plants in two lakes of Haliyal Taluk, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka

Comparative account and diversity of lower and higher plants in two lakes of Haliyal Taluk, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka

Floristic diversity of mangroves and mangrove associate species of Kali River Estuary, Karwar, Karnataka, India

This study assessed the mangrove flora of the Kali River estuary, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka. Fourteen true mangrove species belonging to eight families and 11 genera were documented from four locations: Devbagh, Mavinhole, Kalimatha Island, and Halgejoog. The mangrove species show a discontinuous distribution pattern in the Kali River estuary. The highest IVI in true mangroves was recorded for Avicennia officinalis at Devbagh, Acanthus ilicifolius at Mavinhole, Sonneratia caseolaris (after Oryza coarctata) at Kalimatha Island, and S. caseolaris (after Derris trifoliata) at Halgejoog. Of the four sites, Devbagh has the highest Shannon-Wiener diversity index, and with regard to species composition, Devbagh and Kalimatha Island are the most similar sites. Kalimatha island has the most well-preserved mangrove community.

Ethnomedicobotany of Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka State

Ethnomedicobotany of Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka State

Archaeological Investigations of Honnavar Fort in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka, India Using Geospatial Technology

Archaeological Investigations of Honnavar Fort in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka, India Using Geospatial Technology

Bio-efficacy of Herbicides on Weed Density, Weed Control Efficiency, Productivity and Groundnut Quality in Coastal Zone of Karnataka under Rice-Groundnut System

A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Kumta, Uttara Kannada district during the rabi-summer season of 2016-17 to investigate the Bio-efficacy of herbicides on weed density, weed control efficiency, productivity and groundnut quality in coastal zone of Karnataka under rice-groundnut system. The experiment followed a RBD with nine treatments out of which six treatments involved the pre-emergence application of herbicides followed by either hand weeding or early post-emergence application, along with control treatments. The results indicated that the pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 30% E.C. (1.5 kg ha-1), followed by one hand weeding at 25 days after sowing (DAS), resulted in significantly reduced total weed density and weed dry matter. This treatment also demonstrated higher weed control efficiency and lower weed index. Moreover, it led to increased pod yield, kernel yield and improved quality of groundnut compared to other treatments.

Health Profile of Working Fishermen in Coastal City: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Fishing community is one of the unique, traditional and endemic community. Fishing is one themajor occupation of Uttara Kannada district. Fishermen are a vulnerable group with some unfavourable life styles and vulnerable for injuries, skin and respiratory allergic manifestations and certain other diseases. Local surveys need to be conducted to understand the extent of morbidity patterns among fishermen and thereby devising a policy approach to suit the local needsMethodology: This study was done as a population based cross – sectional study among the fishing community in Karwar which is located at coastal boundary of Uttarkannada district, Karnataka. The study was conducted for a period of 6 months from June to December 2019. All the families of Fishermen community coming under field practice area of Chittakula UHC of the Govt medical college of the district were constituted as a part of our study. A total of 472 families resided in the area constituting of 1419 population of which 724 working members in the occupation of fishing.Result: Among them Percentage of male working members 33.1% (470) and 17.9% (254) were female working members. It was seen that 79.1% of males and 23.3% of females were literates. 32.1% were below the age of 20 years, 37.6% were between 21-40 years ang 30.3% constituted above 40 years. It was found that 64.08% (464) of the working people in fishing sector had one or the other morbidity.Conclusion: There is a high presence of musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory diseases, skin problems, noncommunicable and communicable diseases in the fishermen community.

Economic Efficiency of Banana Production in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka, India

Aim: Banana cultivation holds significant agricultural importance, contributing substantially to global dietary staples. This study Examines the economic efficiency of banana production in Uttara Kannada district.
 Sampling Design: Employed purposive and multistage sampling, the study focuses on Sirsi and Siddapur taluks, selecting 80 farmers through random sampling.
 Methodology: The research examines resource utilization by employing the Cobb-Douglas production function and evaluate efficiency levels by Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA).
 Results: Allocative efficiency in banana cultivation is apparent through positive MVP/MFC ratios for inputs like suckers (15.89), manure (1.91), fertilizers (7.21), machine labor (1.75), and propping material (6.66), indicating underutilization. Conversely, plant protection chemicals (-22.35) and human labor (-1.20) show negative ratios, signifying overutilization. The ratio of MVP to MFC was differed from unity indicating scope for reallocation of expenditure among various resources. Using Data Envelopment Analysis, individual farm technical and economic efficiency was assessed. Banana, Crop I had a mean technical efficiency of 70.30, while Crop II had 49.40. The results highlight room for improvement, especially in Crop II, emphasizing the need for better resource allocation. Major production constraints include labour scarcity, poor planting material, and pest issues. Marketing hurdles encompass price fluctuations, limited storage, and distant markets.
 Conclusion: The study emphasizes the banana cultivation revealed significant impacts of resource utilization on yield, with suckers, fertilizers, and plant protection chemicals showing substantial effects. Allocative efficiency analysis indicated underutilization of resources, suggesting potential for yield improvement. However, farmers face challenges including labour scarcity, quality planting material, price fluctuations, and inadequate storage facilities in production and marketing.

Impact of changing urban landscapes on forest degradation: A study on a part of Western Ghats, India.

The current research is focused on studying the land use changes in selected sites (total area of 3488 sq. km) of the Uttara Kannada district and the impacts of urbanization of forest degradation. Topographical maps from the Survey of India have been used to mark the study area's boundary. Forest degradation mapping has been conducted through spatiotemporal analysis of LANDSAT and Google Earth imageries for the years 1989, 2001, 2013, and 2020. The decadal change was evaluated throughout the period to delineate the sites of encroachment. The change analysis revealed that 56.6% of the forest area has remained primarily dense; 6.46% of the area has remained unchanged as agricultural area, while almost 0.95% of the total agricultural area has been converted into built-up land or has become barren. Spatiotemporal change analysis also revealed that, overall, 85.1% of the study area has remained unchanged and 4.7% of the area has changed in some form or other. Ground truthing through Google Earth imageries for various periods reveals an increase in the built-up land along the coastal stretch and the north-eastern part of the region. In some places, agricultural lands have been abandoned, which have then been converted into shrublands. The unorganized growth of built-up land and decrease in the forest and agricultural lands have necessitated extensive fieldwork for developing guidelines for the protection of forest areas and planning of built-up and agricultural lands.

Mineralogical Analysis of Lithomargic Clay Deposits along the Coastal Belt of Uttara Kannada Region in South India

The Lithomargic clay, generally known as Shedi soil found below the lateritic soil along the coastal belt of Karnataka. This lithomargic clay is rich in silt content and dispersive in nature. The dispersion or de-flocculation behaviour of clays is influenced by factors including mineral composition, soil chemistry, the presence of dissolved salts in the pore water, and the characteristics of the erosive water. This type of soil is liable to erosion and landslides. At present, coastal belt of Uttara Kannada district is witnessing a lot of developments in terms of Industry, infrastructures, and other activities. Lithomargic clay represents a challenging soil variety that necessitates comprehensive examination to render it compatible for supporting various engineering structures such as buildings, pavements, railways, and dam. The X-ray diffraction and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis were conducted to identify the presence of minerals and compounds for the various soil samples collected along the coastal belt of Uttara Kannada District. The minerals observed in most of the locations are quartz, feldspar like orthoclase, microcline, albite, mica group consisting of muscovite and biotite, those that are not altered chemically since the time of formation and deposition. The presence of secondary minerals like kaolinite, illite, montmorillonite, vermiculite, gibbsite, and calcite are witnessed by the X-ray diffraction analysis.

Is relocation an answer to conservation? experiences from the Kali Tiger Reserve, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka

Is relocation an answer to conservation? experiences from the Kali Tiger Reserve, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka

A comparative analysis of arecanut based cropping system in Uttara Kannada district

The study was conducted in Uttara Kannada district which comes under the jurisdiction of UAS, Dharwad during the year 2021-2022. To make comparative analysis of arecanut based cropping system by employing “Ex-post facto” research design and by using simple random sampling technique in Uttara Kannada district constituting a total sample size of 120 farmers. It was revealed that, 77.50 per cent of sole crop and 65.00 per cent of multiple cropping growers adopted Sirsi local variety, 77.50 per cent of sole crop growers done planting during May-August and 65.00 per cent of multiple cropping growers done planting during August-September, 95.00 per cent of multiple cropping growers adopted 2.7×2.7m spacing, 47.50 per cent of multiple cropping growers adopted square system of layout, 47.50 per cent of sole crop growers adopted covering of stem, 52.50 per cent of sole crop growers adopted method of fertilizer application, 67.50 per cent of sole crop growers adopted depth of drainage, 75.00 per cent of sole crop growers adopted mulching, both sole and multiple cropping growers adopted manual method of harvesting and 92.50 per cent of sole crop growers go for rashi type of processing to get maximum profit. There is enough scope to encourage adoption of arecanut based cropping system by using mass contact methods and concerned transfer of technology centers. Thus, the efforts should be made to conduct training programmes and demonstrations.So, it is another vital thing that needs to be given priority to adoption of production technology.

Adoption of arecanut based cropping system technologies by farmers of Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka

The study was conducted in Uttara Kannada district which comes under the jurisdiction of UAS, Dharwad during the year 2022-2023, to study the adoption of arecanut based cropping system technologies of UAS Dharwad by employing ex-post facto research design and using simple random sampling technique in Uttar Kannada districts of Karnataka constituting a total sample size of 120 farmers. Majority (69.16 %) of them adopted Sirsi local variety, cent per cent of them planted 12-18 months old seedlings, majority (69.16 %) of them plantedseedlings in may-august, large majority of them followed a spacing of 2.7x 2.7, More than half (55.83 %) of them adopted 90x90x90 cm pit size, 39.17 per cent of them followed square and triangle layout of plantation, 36.66 per cent of them followed multiple cropping with banana, large majority (81.66 %) of applied recommended dosage of FYM, more than two fifth (45.00 %) of them followed ring method of fertilizer application, large majority (79.16 %) of them adopted sprinkler drip irrigation,more than half (51.66 %) followed recommended depth of drainage, more than half (57.50 %) of them used Bordeaux mixture spray for bud spot control, more than two fifth (44.20 %) of them dug trenches for foot rot disease control, large majority of them (96.67 %) used phorate granules for spindle bug control, 30.00 per cent of them used dimethoate for mites’ control,tender nuts during July-December by majority, ripen nuts were harvested during Dec-March by 49.17 %. Large majority (89.16 %) of them manually harvested the areca nuts. Majority (68.33 %) of them of them adopted kalipak method of harvesting. More than two fifth (41.66 %) of them belonged to medium adoption level category, 30.84 per cent of them belonged to low and 27.50 per cent of them belonged to high adoption level category respectively.

Estimation of Above Ground Carbon Stock Using Airborne Lidar in Yellapur Forest Division of Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka, India

The study was carried out at Yellapur Forest Division, Karnataka, with 86.97% forest area, exploring aboveground carbon (AGC) variations across different forest types and their correlation with LiDAR metrics. Ten one-hectare permanent plots were established, with 3 in dry and moist deciduous each, and 4 in semievergreen forests. All trees with >30 cm girth at breast height were inventoried. AGC estimates were 308.28 mg ha–1 in semi-evergreen, 207.77 mg ha–1 in moist deciduous, and 117.88 mg ha–1 in dry deciduous forests. LiDAR data were acquired using a Nextcore Lumos XM120 UAV LiDAR system. In dry deciduous and moist deciduous forests, the 95th height percentile correlated strongly with observed AGC, yielding predicted AGC values of 118.56 mg ha–1 and 208.86 mg ha–1, with R2 values of 0.91 and 0.83, respectively. Conversely, in semi-evergreen forests, the 50th height percentile outperformed other metrics, resulting in a predicted AGC of 310.90 mg ha–1 (R2 =0.57).