COLLECTION OF PROPAGATION MATERIAL
OF INDIGENOUS RANGELAND FORAGE AND MEDICINAL PLANT
SPECIES IN THREE REGIONS OF OMAN
AbstractThe collection missions for rangeland germplasm concerning forage and medicinal plant species were organized
in Oman during months of August and September 2005. The representative sites of three regions of Oman viz.
Salalah, Interior and Sharqiya were visited for collection mission. These collection missions were mainly con-
cerned with collection of propagation materials such as stubbles or tillers of grass species, cuttings or seeds, if
available, of herb, shrub or tree species. The mission was guided by the list of target species prepared based on
our interviews with herders, farmers rearing livestock and the others knowing indigenous medicine. In the col-
lection mission, we were able to collect stubbles of 11 forage grass species, seedlings of 5 forage herb (forb)
species, cuttings of 16 forage shrub species and cuttings of 11 forage tree species were taken from all sites. The
seedlings/cuttings of 25 plant taxa of medicinal importance have been collected. The stubbles seedlings/cuttings
have been planted in black polythene bags containing appropriate soil mixture at respective sites and have been
maintained in the shade house until they attain stage of transplanting in the Ex Situ gene bank of pasture/medic-
inal plant species of Oman. The germplasm materials collected are evaluated within the collaborative program
between the Sultanate and ICARDA-APRP, for their forage/medicinal and economic value.
The collection missions for rangeland germplasm concerning forage and medicinal plant species were organized
in Oman during months of August and September 2005. The representative sites of three regions of Oman viz.
Salalah, Interior and Sharqiya were visited for collection mission. These collection missions were mainly con-
cerned with collection of propagation materials such as stubbles or tillers of grass species, cuttings or seeds, if
available, of herb, shrub or tree species. The germplasm materials collected are evaluated within the collabora-
tive program between the Sultanate and ICARDA-APRP, for their forage/medicinal and economic value.
The mission was guided by the list of target species prepared based on our interviews with herders, farmers rear-
ing livestock and the others knowing indigenous medicine. In the collection mission, we were able to collect
stubbles of 11 forage grass species (Table 1), seedlings of 5 forage herb (forb) species (Table 2), cuttings of 16
forage shrub species (Table 3) and cuttings of 11 forage tree species (Table 4) were taken from all sites.
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Table 1. List of stubbles of forage-grass species
1. Aeluropus lagopoides (L.) Trin. ex Thwaites Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
2. Cenchrus pennisetiformis Steud. Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
3. Cymbopogon schoenanthus (L.) Spreng. Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
4. Dactyloctenium scindicum Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
5. Dichanthium micranthum Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
6. Dichanthium aristatum Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
7. Dyschoriste dalyi Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
8. Pennisetum setaceum (Forsskal) Chiov. Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
9. Setaria verticillata Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
10. Seteria sp Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
11. Themeda quadrivalis Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
Table 2. List of seedlings of forage herb (forb) species
1. Diplotaxis harra (Forsskal) Boiss. Family: Crucifexae
2. Helianthemum lippii (L.) Dum-Cours. Family: Cistaceae
3. Heliotropium calcareum Stocks Family: Boroginaceae
4. Reichardia tingitana (L.) Roth. Family: Compositae
5. Zygophyllum simplex L Family: Zygophyllacene
Table 3. List of Cuttings of forage shrub species
1. Capparis spinosa L. Family: Capparaceae
2. Dyerophytum indicum (Gibs. Ex Wight) Kuntze. Family: Plumbaginaceae
3. Euphorbia larica Boiss Family: Euphorbiaceae
4. Euphorbia riebekii Family: Euphorbiaceae
5. Fagonia indica Burm. F. Family: Zygophyllaceae
6. Grewia erythraea Schweinf. Family: Tiliaceae
7. Haloxylon salicornicum (Moq.) Bunge ex Boiss. Family: Chenopodiaceae
8. Heliotropium kotschyi (Ledeb.) Guerke. Family: Boraginalene
9. Jaubertia aucheri: Guill Family: Rubiaceae
10. Leptadenia pyrotechnica (Forsskal) Decne Family: Asclepiadaceae
11. Lycium shawii Roem & Schult. Family: Solanceae
12. Monotheca buxifolia (Falc.) A.DC. Family: Sapotaceae
13. Periploca aphylla Decne. Family: Asclepiadaceae
14. Pteropyrum scoparium Janb. & Spach Family: Polygonaceae
15. Rhus aucheri Boiss. Family: Anacardiaceae
16. Sagetaria spiciflora (A. Rich.) Hutch. & Druce Family: Rhamnaceae
Table 4. List of cuttings of forage-tree species
1. Acacia ehrenbergiana Hayne. Family: Mimosaceae
2. Acacia etbaica Family: Mimosaceae
3. Acacia nilotica (subspecies indica) Family: Mimosaceae
4. Acacia Senegal Family: Mimosaceae
5. Anogeissus dhofarica Family: Combretaceae
6. Blepharis dhofarense Family: Acanthaceae
7. Blepharispermum hirtum Family: Compositae
8. Maerua crassifolia Forsskal. Family: Capparaceae
9. Maytenus dhofarensis Family: Celastraceae
10. Ormocarpum dhofarense Family: Fabaceae
11. Tamarix aphylla (L.) Karst. Family: Tamaricaceae
Table 5. List of seedlings/cuttings of plant taxa of medicinal importance
Scientific Name Local name
1. Acridocarpus orientalis Qaphas
2. Aloe vera Muql, Siql
3. Capparis spinosa Lisaf
4. Caralluma aucheriana Dhiz
5. Cassia italica Ashriq
6. Citrulus colocynthis Handal
7. Cleome glaucescense Mukhaiblutil-shams
8. Convolvulus cf pilosetiformis Nijja
9. Crucianella membraneaea Muhtadi
10. Cymbopogon schoenanthus Sakhbar
11. Dodonaea viscosa Shahs
12. Fagonia indica Shikya
13. Indigofera intricata Uzlim
14. Lavendula subnuda Haraaq, Sawmar
15. Lycium shawii Qasad
16. Maerua crassifolia Sarh
17. Moringa perigrina Shuh
18. Pennisetum setaceum Halfa
19. Pteropyrum scoparium Sidaf
20. Rhazya stricta Harmal
21. Rhus aucheri Qataf
22. Salvadora persica Raq
23. Tamarix aphylla Athal
24. Taverniera glabra Asmat
25. Tephrisia purpurea Dhafra
The seedlings/cuttings of 25 plant taxa of medicinal importance have been collected (Table 5).
The stubbles seedlings/cuttings have been planted in black polythene bags containing appropriate soil mix-
ture at respective sites and have been maintained in the shade house until they attain stage of transplanting in the
Ex Situ gene bank of pasture/medicinal plant species of Oman.
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ESTABLISHMENT OF EX SITU GENEBANK OF
INDIGENOUS MEDICINAL PLANT SPECIES OF OMAN
AbstractEstablishment of a field genebank of indigenous medicinal plant species of Oman was initiated in a shade-house
of about 900 m2 m at Rumais Research Station during October- November 2005. A list of medicinal plant species
that occur in rangelands and as crop species was prepared based on the information gathered from the several
interviews with herders during several collection missions and the literature on flora and fauna of Oman. The list
included a total of 101 medicinal plant species belonging to 90 genera and 48 families. These medicinal plant
species include 85 species from rangelands, 10 species from vegetable crops, 4 species from field crops and 2
species from fruit crops. The layout of Ex Situ genebank has been alphabetically in serpentine pattern. It was
planned to keep one plant of each species in each of four pots. Initial planting of available plants at shade house
that covers as many as 48% of species was done during November 2005. The plants of those species that are not
available at present will be collected during future collection missions and planted at their respective pots in the
Ex Situ genebank. This Ex Situ genebank will be first of its kind in Oman towards conservation of indigenous
medicinal plant species. The indigenous medicinal plant species are used phase wise on priority for characteri-
zation and seed multiplication (basic and bulk) for further utilization.
Ex Situ genebanks of any plant species be it of forage to food to medicinal value, could be considered as nation-
al asset to the country towards maintaining its bio-diversity. They would be beneficial to the country in terms of
conservation and utilization of indigenous germplasm to meet objectives of several issues on bio-diversity.
Collection missions of indigenous germplasm are frequently organized to collect propagation material of plant
species viz. seed, rhizomes, suckers, cuttings, bulbs etc for Ex Situ conservation in the laboratory or in the field
or shade-house and further utilization. Several collections missions were organized in the past by the Ministry
of Agriculture & Fisheries to collect indigenous germplasm of field and forage crops during 1980's. The collec-
tion missions for rangeland germplasm concerning forage plant species were organized in North Oman during
months of March and April in 2002 and 2003.
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Table 1. List of plant taxa of medicinal importance
Family name Scientific Name Local name Occur in or as
1. Aloeaceae Aloe vera L. Siql or Sabar Rangelands2. Amaranthaceae Aerva javanica L. Ra' Rangelands3. Anacardaceae Rhus aucheri Qataf Rangelands4. Apiaceae Coriandrum sativum L. Cobzra, kabzara or khabzara or Dhania Vegetable5. Apiaceae Daucus carota Gizr Vegetable6. Apocynaceae Rhazya stricta Harmal Rangelands7. Asclepiadaceae Caralluma aucheriana N.E. Br. Dhij Rangelands8. Asclepiadaceae Leptadenia pyrotechnica Marakh Rangelands9. Asclepiadaceae Pergularia tomentosa Ghalaqah Rangelands10. Asclepiadaceae Periploca aphylla Handaboob Rangelands11. Asteraceae Carthamus tinctorius L. Zafran Field crop12. Asteraceae Launea nudicaulis L. Hook. Huwah Rangelands13. Asteraceae Reichardia tingitana L. Halawla or huwwa or makn or murr Rangelands14. Brassicacea Anastatica hierochuntica Kaff Al-Maryam Rangelands15. Brassicaceae Physorhynchus chamaerrapistrum Boiss.Khophiz Rangelands16. Brassicaceae Raphanus sativus L. Fejel or figl or qusm Vegetable17. Boraginaceae Arnebia hispidissima L. Funn or lisn al thor Rangelands18. Boraginaceae Heliotropium crispum Desf. Rumram Rangelands19. Burseraceae Boswellia sacra Flueck Luban Rangelands20. Cactaceae Opuntia ficus-indica sabbar Rangelands21. Caesalpiniaceae Delonix elata Eyrir Rangelands22. Caesalpiniaceae Senna italica Ashriq Rangelands23. Caesalpiniaceae Tamarindus indica L. Sebbar or tamar al-hind Rangelands24. Capparaceae Cadaba farinose Forsaakal Simar or Surah Rangelands25. Capparaceae Capparis cartilaginea Decne Lusef, aslub Rangelands26. Capparaceae Capparis spinosa L. Lisaf or Lusef or fakouha or shafallah Rangelands27. Capparacea Cleome amblycarpa L. Mukhaisa Rangelands28. Capparaceae Cleome rupicola Vicary Mukhaiblutil-shams Rangelands29. Capparaceae Maerua crassifolia Sarh Rangelands30. Caricaceae Carica papaya L. Papaya or fifaiy Fruit crop31. Chenopodiaceae Atriplex halimus L. Rughul Rangelands32. Chenopodiaceae Cornulaca monocantha L. Thallg Rangelands33. Chenopodiaceae Haloxylon salicornicum Bunge Rimth Rangelands34. Chenopodiaceae Sueda aegiptiaca Hasselq. Suwwaida Rangelands35. Chenopodiaceae Sueda vermiculata Forsskal Suwwaida Rangelands36. Conoferophyta Juniperus excelsa Al-alan Rangelands37. Convolvulaceae Cressa cretica Nedewah or shuwwyl Rangelands
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Family name Scientific Name Local name Occur in or as
38. Cucurbitaceae Citrulus colocynthis Handal Rangelands39. Cucurbitaceae Citrulus lanatus (Thunb.) Bateekh Vegetable40. Cucurbitaceae Cucumis sativus Kheyar Vegetable41. Cucurbitaceae Cucurbita maxima Qar Vegetable42. Ebenaceae Euclea schimperi Kilit Rangelands43. Euphorbiaceae Euphorbia balsamifera ssp.adenensis Tikedoha or tiskot or tehekot Rangelands44. Euphorbiaceae Euphorbia larica Asbaq Rangelands45. Euphorbiaceae Ricinus communis L. arash or kharwa or khirwa Rangelands46. Fabaceae Alhagi maurorum L. Aqul or Agul Rangelands47. Fabaceae Crotalaria aegyptiaca Nizaa Rangelands48. Fabaceae Taverniera glabra Asmat Rangelands49. Fabaceae Tephrosia purpurea Dhafra Rangelands50. Fabaceae Trigonella foenum-graecum Helba Vegetable51. Fabaceae Indigofera oblongifolia Uzlim Rangelands52. Fabaceae Medicago sativa L. Qat or get Field crop53. Labiatae Lavandula dhofarensis Heyem or ekulun or hibun Rangelands54. Labiatae Lavandula subnuda Sawmar, haraq Rangelands55. Labiatae Teucrium muscatense Jyaad Rangelands56. Lamiaceae Mentha longifolia L. Hudson Na’ana Farms57. Lamiaceae Thymus vulgaris Za’ater Rangelands58. Lamiaceae Ocimum basilicum L. Basil or Rehan Rangelands59. Liliaceae Adiantum capillus-veneris L. Khuwaisat-al ma’a Rangelands60. Liliaceae Allium cepa L. Basal Vegetable61. Liliaceae Allium sativum L. Thoom Vegetable62. Liliaceae Asphodelus fistulosus L. Mubsaila Rangelands63. Lythraceae Lawsonia inermis Henna Rangelands64. Malphighiacea Acridocarpus orientalis L. Qaphas Rangelands65. Meliaceae Azadirachta indica A.Juss Neem, shireesh Rangelands66. Mimosaceae Acacia ehrenbergiana L. Salam Rangelands67. Mimosaceae Acacia gerrardii L. Tulh Rangelands68. Mimosaceae Acacia niloticaa L. Qarat or Karat Rangelands69. Mimosaceae Acacia sinegalL. Thor Rangelands70. Mimosaceae Acacia tortilis L. Samar Rangelands71. Mimosaceae Prosopis cineraria L. Gaaf Rangelands72. Moraceae Ficus cordata sp. Salicifolia Vahl. Lithab Rangelands73. Moringaceae Moringa perigrina Shuh Rangelands74. Myrtaceae Myrtus communis L. Yaas or Myrtle or hads Rangelands75. Oleaceae Olea europaea Itm Rangelands
Family name Scientific Name Local name Occur in or as
76. Pedaliaceae Sesamum indicum L. zait simsim or saltt gigilan Field crop77. Plumbaginaceae Dyerophytum indicum Kuntze Malihla Rangelands78. Plumbaginaceae Limonium axillare Qataf or gataf Rangelands79. Poaceae(Gramineae) Cymbopogon schoenanthus Sakhbar Rangelands80. Poaceae(Gramineae) Pennisetum setaceum Halfa Rangelands81. Poaceae(Gramineae) Phragmates australis Cav. Aqraban or hajna Rangelands82. Poaceae(Gramineae) Saccharum officinarum L. Qasab al- sukkar Field crop83. Polygonaceae Calligonum comosum L.’Herit Abl or Arta Rangelands84. Polygonaceae Pteropyrum scoparium Sidaf Rangelands85. Polyganaceae Rumex vesicarius L. Humayda, Humaid Rangelands86. Polypodiaceae Pteris vittata Khusa-tal ma’a Rangelands87. Portulacaceae Portulaca oleraceae L. Al-khalqa or barbir or ferfena or humdeh Rangelands88. Resedaceae Ochradenus baccatus Del. Gurdii or qirdi or qurdi Rangelands89. Rhamnaceae Zizipus spina-christi Sidr Rangelands90. Rubiaceae Crucianella membraneaea Muhtadi Rangelands91. Rutaceae Citrus aurantifolia L Loomi Fruit crop92. Rutaceae Haplophyllum tuberculatum Tafar al tays Rangelands93. Salvadoraceae Salvadora persica Raq Rangelands94. Sapindaceae Dodonaea viscosa Shahs Rangelands95. Solanaceae Datura metel L. Maranhah Rangelands96. Solanaceae Lycium shawii Qasad Rangelands97. Solanaceae Solanum incanum Shrinjiban Rangelands98. Tamaricaceae Tamarix aphylla Athal Rangelands99. Verbanaceae Avicennia marina L. Qurm Rangelands100. Zygophyllaceae Fagonia indica Shikya Rangelands101. Zygophyllaceae Zygophyllum propinquum Decne Harm Rangelands
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Table 2. List of plant taxa of medicinal importance (in alphabetical order)
Family name Scientific Name Local Name
1. Liliaceae Adiantum capillus-veneris L. Khuwaisat-al ma’a2. Mimosaceae Acacia ehrenbergiana L. Salam3. Mimosaceae Acacia gerrardii L. Tulh 4. Mimosaceae Acacia niloticaa L. Qarat or Karat5. Mimosaceae Acacia sinegalL. Thor6. Mimosaceae Acacia tortilis L. Samar7. Malphighiacea Acridocarpus orientalis L. Qaphas8. Amaranthaceae Aerva javanica L. Ra'9. Fabaceae Alhagi maurorum L. Aqul or Agul10. Liliaceae Allium cepa L. Basal11. Liliaceae Allium sativum L. Thoom12. Aloeaceae Aloe veraL. Siql or Sabar13. Brassicacea Anastatica hierochuntica Kaff Al-Maryam14. Boraginaceae Arnebia hispidissima L. Funn or lisn al thor15. Liliaceae Asphodelus fistulosus L. Mubsaila16. Chenopodiaceae Atriplex halimus L. Rughul17. Verbanaceae Avicennia marina L. Qur18. Meliaceae Azadirachta indica A.Juss Neem, shireesh19. Burseraceae Boswellia sacra Flueck Luban20. Capparaceae Cadaba farinose Forsaakal Simar or Surah21. Polygonaceae Calligonum comosum L.’Herit Abl or Arta22. Capparaceae Capparis cartilaginea Decne Lusef, aslub23. Capparaceae Capparis spinosa L. Lisaf, Lusef or fakouha or shafallah
24. Asclepiadaceae Caralluma aucheriana N.E. Br. Dhij25. Caricaceae Carica papaya L. Papaya or fifaiy26. Asteraceae Carthamus tinctorius L. Zafran27. Cucurbitaceae Citrulus colocynthis Handal28. Cucurbitaceae Citrulus lanatus (Thunb.) Bateekh29. Rutaceae Citrus aurantifolia L Loomi30. Capparaceae Cleome amblycarpa L. Mukhaisa31. Capparaceae Cleome rupicola Vicary Mukhaiblutil-shams32. Apiaceae Coriandrum sativum L. Cobzra,kabzara,khabzara,Dhania
33. Chenopodiaceae Cornulaca monocantha L. Thallg34. Convolvulaceae Cressa cretica Nedewah or shuwwyl35. Fabaceae Crotalaria aegyptiaca Nizaa36. Rubiaceae Crucianella membraneaea Muhtadi37. Cucurbitaceae Cucumis sativus Kheyar
Family name Scientific Name Local Name
38. Cucurbitaceae Cucurbita maxima Qar39. Poaceae (Gramineae) Cymbopogon schoenanthus Sakhbar40. Solanaceae Datura metel L. Maranhah41. Apiaceae Daucus carota Gizr42. Caesalpiniaceae Delonix elata Eyrir43. Sapindaceae Dodonaea viscosa Shahs44. Plumbaginaceae Dyerophytum indicum Kuntze Malihla45. Ebenaceae Euclea schimperi Kilit46. Euphorbiaceae Euphorbia balsamifera ssp.adenensis Tikedoha or tiskot or tehekot
47. Euphorbiaceae Euphorbia larica Asbaq48. Zygophyllaceae Fagonia indica Shikya49. Moraceae Ficus cordata sp. Salicifolia Vahl. Lithab50. Chenopodiaceae Haloxylon salicornicum Bunge Rimth51. Rutaceae Haplophyllum tuberculatum Tafar al tays52. Boraginaceae Heliotropium crispum Desf. Rumram53. Fabaceae Indigofera oblongifolia Uzlim54. Conoferophyta Juniperus excelsa Al-alan55. Asteraceae Launea nudicaulis L. Hook. Huwah56. Labiatae Lavandula dhofarensis Heyem or ekulun or hibun57. Labiatae Lavandula subnuda Sawmar, haraq58. Lythraceae Lawsonia inermis Henna59. sclepiadaceae Leptadenia pyrotechnica Marakh60. Plumbaginaceae Limonium axillare Qataf or gataf61. Solanaceae Lycium shawii Qasad62. Capparaceae Maerua crassifolia Sarh63. Fabaceae Medicago sativa L. Qat or get64. Lamiaceae Mentha longifolia L. Hudson Na’ana65. Moringaceae Moringa perigrina Shuh66. Myrtaceae Myrtus communis L. Yaas or Myrtle or hads67. Resedaceae Ochradenus baccatus Del. Gurdii or qirdi or qurdi68. Lamiaceae Ocimum basilicum L. Basil or Rehan69. Oleaceae Olea europaea Itm70. Cactaceae Opuntia ficus-indica Sabbar71. Poaceae (Gramineae) Pennisetum setaceum Halfa72. Asclepiadaceae Pergularia tomentosa Ghalaqah73. Asclepiadaceae Periploca aphylla Handaboob74. Poaceae (Gramineae) Phragmates australis Cav. Aqraban or hajna75. Brassicaceae Physorhynchus chamaerrapistrum Boiss. Khophiz
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Family name Scientific Name Local Name
76. Portulacaceae Portulaca oleraceae L. Alkhalqa,barbir,ferfena,humdeh77. Mimosaceae Prosopis cineraria L. Gaaf78. Polygonaceae Pteropyrum scoparium Sidaf79. Brassicaceae Raphanus sativus L. Fejel or figl or qusm80. Asteraceae Reichardia tingitana L. Halawla or huwwa or makn or murr81. Apocynaceae Rhazya stricta Harmal82. Anacardaceae Rhus aucheri Qataf83. Euphorbiaceae Ricinus communis L. Arash or kharwa or khirwa84. Polyganaceae Rumex vesicarius L. Humayda, Humaid85. Poaceae (Gramineae) Saccharum officinarum L. Qasab al- sukkar86. Salvadoraceae Salvadora persica Raq87. Caesalpiniaceae Senna italica Ashriq88. Pedaliaceae Sesamum indicum L. zait simsim or saltt gigilan89. Solanaceae Solanum incanum Shrinjiban90. Chenopodiaceae Sueda aegiptiaca Hasselq. Suwwaida91. Chenopodiaceae Sueda vermiculata Forsskal Suwwaida92. Caesalpiniaceae Tamarindus indica L. Sebbar or tamar al-hind93. Tamaricaceae Tamarix aphylla Athal94. Fabaceae Taverniera glabra Asmat95. Fabaceae Tephrosia purpurea Dhafra96. Labiatae Teucrium muscatense Jyaad97. Lamiaceae Thymus vulgaris Za’ater98. Polypodiaceae Pteris vittata Khusa-tal ma’a99. Fabaceae Trigonella foenum-graecum Helba100.Rhamnaceae Zizipus spina-christi Sidr101.Zygophyllaceae Zygophyllum propinquum Decne Harm
A similar mission was supported by ICARDA-APRP in 1998 for the North Oman in which as many as 68 seed
accessions of 28 taxa were collected. In 2002-03 our collection missions targeted the representative sites of seven
regions of Oman viz. Muscat, North Batinah, South Batinah, Interior, Dhahira, Sharqiya and Musandam. The
samples of 31 seed accessions of as many as 23 taxa, consisting 16 of forage grass species, 2 of forage herb (forb)
species, 10 of forage shrub species and 3 of forage tree species were collected in most sites. Besides, 31 herbaria
samples and samples of 10 seed accessions of indigenous medicinal plant species were collected. The Herbaria
have been kept preserved in the cupboard and samples of seed accessions have been preserved under cold stor-
age (Deep Freezers) at Seed and Plant Genetic Resources Research Lab. A database has been collected for pass-
port data in all sites.
In order to establish Ex Situ genebank of medicinal plant species, a list of medicinal plant species was prepared
based on the information gathered from the several interviews with herders during collection missions and the
literature on flora and fauna of Oman. The list included a total of 101 medicinal plant species belonging to 90
genera and 48 families. These medicinal plant species include 85 species from rangelands, 10 species from veg-
etable crops, 4 species from field crops and 2 species from fruit crops (Table 1). The layout of Ex Situ genebank
has been alphabetically (Table 2) in serpentine pattern. It was planned to keep one plant of each species in each
of four pots. Initial planting of available plants at shade house that covers as many as 48% of species was done
during November 2005. The plants of those species that are not available at present will be collected during
future collection missions and planted at their respective pots in the Ex Situ genebank.
This Ex Situ genebank will be first of its kind in Oman towards conservation of indigenous medicinal plant
species. The indigenous medicinal plant species are used phase wise on priority for characterization and seed
multiplication (basic and bulk) for further utilization.
REFERENCES
Ghazanfar, S. A., Miller, A. G., Mc Leish, I., Cope, T. A., Cribb, P. and Al-Rawahi, S. H. (1995). Plant
Conservation in Oman. Part-I. A study of the endemic, regionally endemic and threatened plants of the
Sultanate of Oman. April 1995. 15 p. Sultan Qaboos University, Oman.
GRM. (1989). Rangeland revegetation project in the southern region –final report. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
MAF. (1990). Natural rangelands in the Southern Region. Rangeland and Forestry Department. Ministry of
Agriculture and Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
Mandaville Jr., J. P. (1975). Plants. In: The scientific results of The Oman flora and fauna and fauna survey
1975. The J. Oman Studies. 1975. Special Report. pp. 229-267.
MI. (1999). Oman 98/99: The Oman Information Handbook. Ministry of Information. Sultanate of Oman. 266 p.
Miller, A. G. and Morris, M. (1987). Plants of Dhofar. The Southern Region of Oman. Traditional, Economic
and Medicinal uses. The Office of the Adviser for Conservation of the Environment, Diwan of Royal Court.
Sultanate of Oman (Pub.). 361p.
RFD. (1995). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
RFD. (1996). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
RFD. (1997). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
Zaroug, M. G. (1983). The status of rangeland of the Southern Region of the Sultanate of Oman (Dhofar). FAO.
Zaroug, M. G. (1991). Rangelands of the Southern Region of Oman: Their characteristics and Aspects of
Development. FAO.
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98
REJUVENATION OF SEEDS OF INDIGENOUS RANGELAND FORAGE
SPECIES (UNDER APRP-PHASE-II 2.3.2)
AbstractRejuvenation activities of seed multiplication of six Cenchrus ciliaris L accessions viz. MF 179, MF 185, MF
190, MF 192, MF 236 and MF 266, were initiated in March 2005 in shade house of Rumais Research Station by
growing each in six pots as the seeds of these accessions were few in number (less than 20). Total husked-seed
quantities from six plants in each accession collected through two harvests were found to vary from 12.2 g (MF
185) to 48.1 g (MF 236). We were able to collect 33.2 g in MF 179, 12.2 g in MF 185, 28.7 g in MF 190, 23.5
g in MF 192, 48.1 g in MF 236 and 37.4 g in MF 266 of seed.
INTRODUCTION
Sultanate of Oman has a large area of rangelands in the Arabian Peninsula especially in Dhofar Jabal areas of
South Oman apart from the ones in the North Oman. More than 100 germplasm of different indigenous forage
grass, herb, shrub and tree species have been collected so far which are part of genetic diversity through ages and
are under use by the grazing animals. Few (e.g. Lasiurus hirsutus have been investigated for their good quality
forage as compared to Rhodes grass besides being capable to emerge under adverse conditions. The seeds of
indigenous rangeland forage species will have to be multiplied in large quantities before they are subjected future
in research for productivity under irrigation or reseeding depleted rangelands. Further, multiplication of seed of
indigenous rangeland forage species has been also one of the mandates of APRP -Phase-II (2.3.3). We had suc-
cessfully produced seeds of Cenchrus cilaris (UAE accession) and Coelachyrum piercei (UAE accession) dur-
ing 1999-2004. Present our efforts have been directed to rejuvenate the seed of our previous collections pre-
served in the genebank. To begin with, it was planned to initiate the activities of rejuvenation of six indigenous
accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L collected during ICARDA-APRP-MAF coordinated collection missions in
1998.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The available seed (<20 in no.) of each of six indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L. viz. MF 179, MF
185, MF 190, MF 192, MF 236 and MF 266, were first germinated in the laboratory (van Gastel et al. (1996) in
February 2005 and at least each of six 15-days old-seedlings of all accessions were transplanted in March 2005
in the pots containing equal proportion of sand, loamy soil and farm yard manure. The seedlings were fertilized
with 150 kg N, 150 kg P2O5 and 150 kg K2O per hectare per year in the form of urea, triple super phosphate and
potassium sulphate. The entire quantities of potassium and phosphatic fertilizers were applied after the establish-
ment of seedlings while N was applied in two split doses- N with P and K or after each harvest and remain-
ing 1/2 N at flag leaf emergence. The plants were irrigated daily @ 1 liter per pot till establishment for two weeks
á°UÓÿG »gh Ω 1998 ΩÉY É¡©ªL ” πNGóe áà°ùd ó«Ñ∏dG á°û«°ûM QhòH QÉãcEG IOÉYEG ‘ AóÑdG ”(MF 179, MF 185, MF 190, MF 192, MF 236 &
MF266).§°Sƒàe âMhGôJ .¢ù«eôdÉH á«YGQõdG çƒëÑdG á£ëà π∏¶ŸG â«ÑdG ±hôX â– 2005 ¢SQÉe ‘ πNóe πμd ¢ü°UCG 6 áYGQR ”h
ºL 12^2 ÚH ÚJó°ü◊ (¢û≤dG ™e) QhòÑdG øe á«LÉàfE’G(MF 185) ºL 48^1h(MF 236)`d ºL 33^2 ™ªL øμeCG ɪ«a(MF 179)28^7h
`d ºL(MF 190)`d ºL 23^5h(MF 192)`d ºL 37^4h(MF266).
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and later three times a week @ 2 liters per pot during winter and 3 liters per pot during summer.
The plants of all the accessions started initiating flowering just within 70 days during June 2005, which were cut
at a height of 10 cm from ground level for fodder to allow them produce more tillers and grow vigorously sub-
sequently later for future seed crops. The species were physiologically mature during first week of September
2005 i.e. in about two month’s period. The mature seeds were manually collected from each plant by grasping
the panicles during Mid-September 2005, when the first harvest was taken up. The second crop came to heading
in 30-35 days and was harvested in the last week of October 2005. The data on husked seed yield harvested (col-
lected) have been recorded after cleaning the produce.
Table 1. Values of some physical and chemical characteristics of the experimental soil at Livestock
Research Center, Rumais.
PHYSICAL:
Coarse sand (%) 21.70
Fine sand (%) 63.00
Silt (%) 3.90
Clay (%) 11.40
Texture Sand
CHEMICAL:
EC (1:5) dS 5.70
PH (1:5) 7.80
Soluble Cations (meq./100g)
Na 65.90
K 0.77
Soluble Anions (meq./100g)
Cl 59.50
N (%) 0.04
Av.P (meq./100g) 15.76
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The details of seed quantity collected (with husk) in each harvest in respect of each accession of Cenchrus cil-iaris L are given in Tables 2. Total husked-seed quantities from six plants in each accession collected through
two harvests were found to vary from 12.2 g (MF 185) to 48.1 g (MF 236). We were able to collect 33.2 g in
MF 179, 12.2 g in MF 185, 28.7 g in MF 190, 23.5 g in MF 192, 48.1 g in MF 236 and 37.4 g in MF 266 of
seed.
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Table 2. Germination % and Seed quantity Collected (kg) at one harvest of six accessions of Cenchrusciliaris L. during the year 2004-2005
Harvests/Species Seed quantity Germination Test Results
Collected (Husked) (g) (Immediately After Harvest)
I- Harvest
1. MF 179, 20.2 0-3%
2. MF 185, 8.0 0-5%
3. MF 190, 18.5 0-4%
4. MF 192, 13.4 0-3%
5. MF 236 31.0 0-5%
6. MF 266 23.4 0-4%
II- Harvest
1. MF 179, 13.0 0-2%
2. MF 185, 4.2 0-3%
3. MF 190, 10.2 0-2%
4. MF 192 10.1 0%
5. MF 236 17.1 0-5%
6. MF 266 14.0 0-2%
Total Seed Quantity (g)
1. MF 179, 33.2
2. MF 185, 12.2
3. MF 190, 28.7
4. MF 192 23.5
5. MF 236 48.1
6. MF 266 37.4
Germination of 0-5% was observed in each accession in the initial germination test carried out using husked seed
immediately after harvest. This indicated presence of dormancy in the seeds (Nadaf et al., 2004).
REFERENCES
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M. and Al-Hinai. S. A. (2002). Bulk seed multiplication of Indigenous rangeland
grass species in Oman. Annual Report. ICARDA-APRP 2001-02.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M. and Al-Hinai. S. A. (2003). Basic and bulk seed multiplication of Indigenous
rangeland grass species in Oman. Annual Report. ICARDA-APRP 2002-03.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M. and Al-Hinai. S. A. (2004). Basic and bulk seed multiplication of Indigenous
rangeland grass species in Oman. Annual Report. ICARDA-APRP 2003-04.
van Gastel, A. J. G., Pagnotta, M. A. and Porceddu, E. (Editors) (1996). Seed Science and Technology.
Proceedings of a Train –the-Trainers Workshop. 24 April to 9 May 1993, Amman, Jordan. International
Center for Agriculture Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), P.O. Box 5466, Aleppo, Syria. 311 pp.
MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF
SIX INDIGENOUS Cenchrus ciliaris L. ACCESSIONS OF OMAN
AbstractSix indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L. viz. MF 179, MF 185, MF 190, MF 192, MF 236 and MF 266
collected during ICARDA-APRP- MAF Joint collection missions of 1998 were subjected to studies on morpho-
logical characterization from March 2005 to September 2005, until the crops were subjected to at least two seed
harvests. Representative samples of the accessions grown in pots under shade house at Agriculture Researh
Center , Rumais were collected at different growth stages. These samples were studied in the laboratory not only
for presence or absence of anthocyanin pigmentation on various plant parts but also for nature of morphological
characters. These investigations established distinct descriptors of six indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliarisL. in respect of pigmentation and morphological characters. All the accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L. were char-
acterized in respect of as many as 22 pigmentation characters and 9 morphological traits. Six indigenous acces-
sions of Cenchrus ciliaris L. have been described based on their pigmentation pattern, morphological and quan-
titative characters.
INTRODUCTION
The Sultanate of Oman, situated at the eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula, facing the Arabian Sea and Gulf of
Oman, is the third largest country in the Arabian Peninsula occupying 309, 500 sq. km. It has a variety of topo-
graphical features consisting of plains, wadis and mountains. The most important area for agriculture is the
coastal plain, which represents 3% of the total area. The mountain ranges occupy about 15% and the remaining
area that occupies 82% of the country is mainly sand and gravel desert (MI, 1999). The climate- that essentially
consists of warm, sunny winters and very hot summers- varies from region to region, with the coastal areas more
humid than the Interior and high altitude areas. In the South, Dhofar region has a moderate climate. With the
exception of Dhofar region in the South where monsoon rains occur between May and September, rainfall
throughout most of the country is generally light and irregular (<50 to 100 mm annually). Ground water is the
main source for irrigation and domestic use.
Oman has a large area of rangelands in the Arabian Peninsula. For instance, in Dhofar region itself, it has range-
land area of about 500 thousand hectares. Of late, these rangelands are slowly degraded due to prolonged spell
of drought since early 1990s and rise in ground water salinity all along the coastal regions. Indiscriminate heavy
á°UÓÿG »gh »∏ÙG ó«Ñ∏dG øe πNGóe áà°ùd ∂dPh ájôgɶdG äÉØ°ü∏d á«ãëH á°SGQO AGôLG ”(MF 179, MF185 MF 190, MF 192, MF 236 &
MF266).å«M .1998 ΩÉY (GOQÉμjG) áaÉ÷G ≥WÉæŸG ‘ á«YGQõdG çƒëÑ∏d ‹hódG õcôŸG ™e ∑ΰûŸG ™ª÷G èeÉfôH ∫ÓN É¡©ªL ” »àdGh
çƒëÑdG á£ëà π∏¶ŸG â«ÑdG ±hôX â– ¢ü°UCG ‘ É¡àYGQõH ∂dPh Ω2005 ȪàÑ°S ¤EG ¢SQÉe øe AGóàHG »∏ÙG ó«Ñ∏dG á°û«°ûM ∞«°UƒJ ”
9h »¨Ñ°üdG ¿ƒ∏àdÉH á≤∏©àe áØ°U 22`d äÉJÉÑædG á°SGQO â“ ó≤d .äÉÑædG ƒ‰ πMGôe ∞∏àfl â∏ª°T äÉæ«Y ΩGóîà°SÉHh ¢ù«eôdÉH á«YGQõdG
äÉÑædG á«°UÉNh äÉØ°üdG √òg ÚH äÉbÓY OÉéjEG ≈∏Y óYÉ°ùj ɇ äÉØ°üdG √ò¡d äÓNóŸG √òg ÚH äÉaÓàNG OƒLh ÚÑJ óbh .ájôgÉX äÉØ°U
.á«∏Ñ≤à°ùŸG ™ª÷G äÉ«∏ªY ‘ äÉaÓàN’G √òg QÉÑàY’G Ú©H òNC’Gh á«Ä«ÑdG äGOÉ¡é∏d πªëàdG å«M øe
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grazing is yet another factor for reduced availability of good quality forage species in the rangelands. The result
of degradation of rangelands has been endangerment or even loss of indigenous plant species, accompanied by
low rangeland productivity. Rangelands assessment of the Dhofar Jabal areas had identified a great trend in
decreasing productivity and quality (Zaroug, 1983 and 1991; Yassin and Al-Shanfari, 1985; UNDP/FAO Project,
1990; MAF, 1990; GRM, 1989 and RFD, 1995, 1996, 1997). Decline in range quality reflected in the increased
abundance of herbs of poorer quality species at the cost of good quality forages that are in the stage of extinc-
tion due to over grazing. Decline in productivity on the other hand, is evidenced by lower forage yields and
increased dependence on concentrates and baled hay to maintain local herds. The loss of vegetation also results
in soil erosion and loss of wildlife habitat and food resources.
The indigenous pasture plants viz. herbs, shrubs, tree and grass species represent valuable genetic and econom-
ic resources that are in danger of being lost. Some species that currently have ecological and biodiversity values
may also have great economic value in the future as a source of adaptation to environmental stresses of heat,
drought and salinity. Oman recognizes the threat to its native pasture plant species. More than 100 germplasm
accessions of indigenous pasture species have been collected from the rangelands under ICARDA- APRP Phase
I during 1998 and Phase II during 2002, which are part of genetic diversity. In order to re-vegetate these degrad-
ed rangelands, seed of indigenous pasture species should be multiplied for further utilization. Before germplasm
utilization, all the collected germplasm need to be classified in different categories they belong with passport
information. Each species will have to be characterized for identification using most important highly heritable
morphological features depending on the extent of facilities available. These features called descriptors would
help in identification of true to type individuals in the plant stand of seed multiplication plots. Such descriptors
would be also of use in visual assessment for reaction to abiotic and biotic stres ses for identifying respective
favorable genes controlling tolerance.
The studies on characterization of species/accessions are being conducted since 2001-2002 at Seed and Plant
Genetic Resources Lab, Agriculture Research Center, Rumais of Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Sultanate
of Oman. During 2001-02, two cultivars of Cenchrus Ciliaris viz. an indigenous collection and Australian vari-
ety were characterized in respect of as many as 15 pigmentation characters and 7 morphological traits. However,
Coelachyrum piercei was characterized in respect of 12 pigmentation characters and 8 morphogical traits (Nadaf
et al., 2002). Investigations on characterization of two perennial rangeland forage species namely Lasiurus hir-sutus . (Buraimi accession) and Panicum Lasiurus hirsutus L. (Buraimi and Izki accessions) were further under-
taken during 2002-2003 (Nadaf et al., 2003). The Buraimi accession of gtrlies L was characterized in respect of
as many as 19 pigmentation characters and 8 morphological traits while the two accessions (Buraimi and Izki)
of Panicum turgidum L. were characterized in respect of as many as 19 pigmentation characters and 11 morpho-
logical traits (Nadaf et al., 2003). During 2003-2004, the results of investigations have established distinct
descriptors of three perennial rangeland forage species namely Lasiurus hirsutus L. (Mahara accession),
Panicum turgidum L. (Mahara accession) and Pennisetum divisum (Mahara accession) in respect of morpholog-
ical and pigmentaion characters. The accession of Lasiurus hirsutus L was characterized in respect of as many
as 19 pigmentation characters and 8 morphological traits while the accessions of of Panicum turgidum L. and
Pennisetum divisum L. were characterized in respect of as many as 19 pigmentation characters and 11 morpho-
logical traits (Nadaf et al., 2004). In the present project, six indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris viz. MF
179, MF 185, MF 190, MF 192, MF 236 and MF 266 collected during 1998 ICARDA-APRP-MAF joint collec-
tion missions, have been considered for morphological characterization during 2004-2005.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The available seed (<20 in no.) of each of six indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L. viz. MF 179, MF
185, MF 190, MF 192, MF 236 and MF 266, were first germinated in the laboratory (van Gastel et al., 1996) in
February 2005 and at least each of six 15-days old-seedlings of all accessions were transplanted in March 2005
in the pots containing equal proportion of sand, loamy soil and farm yard manure. The seedlings were fertilized
with 150 kg N, 150 kg P2O5 and 150 kg K2O per hectare per year in the form of urea, triple super phosphate and
potassium sulphate. The entire quantities of potassium and phosphatic fertilizers were applied after the establish-
ment of seedlings while N was applied in two split doses- 1/2 N with P and K or after each harvest and remain-
ing 1/2 N at flag leaf emergence. The plants were irrigated daily @ 1 liter per pot till establishment for two weeks
and later three times a week @ 2 liters per pot during winter and 3 liters per pot during summer.
The plants of all the accessions started initiating flowering just within 70 days during June 2005, which were
cut at a height of 10 cm from ground level for fodder to allow them produce more tillers and grow vigorously
subsequently later for future seed crops. The species were physiologically mature during first week of September
2005 i.e. in about two month’s period. The mature seeds were manually collected from each plant by grasping
the panicles during Mid-September 2005, when the first harvest was taken up.
Representative samples of six indigenous accessions of Rumais viz. MF 179, MF 185, MF 190, MF 192, MF
236 and MF 266 grown in pots under shade house at Agriculture Research Center, Rumais were collected at dif-
ferent growth stages. These samples were studied in the laboratory not only for presence or absence of antho-
cyanin pigmentation on various plant parts but also for nature of morphological characters .
I. Plant Parts studied for presence or absence of anthocyanin pigmentation:
1. Culm: The collective name for the aboveground portion of the grass plant; jointed stem of a grass plant,
the true stem, and elongated internodes.
2. Leaf blade: The portion of the grass blade that separates from the stem at an angle (usually less than 90
percent), above the collar.
3. Leaf margin: It refers to peripheral area of the leaf blade.
4. Leaf tip: It refers to tip or pointed end of the leaf blade.
5. Leaf sheath: Portion of the grass blade that begins at the node and that wraps around the stem below the col
lar.
6. Sheath puvinus: It refers to part of the leaf sheath that covers the nodal part.
7. Pulvinus ring: It refers to the starting portion of the leaf sheath that surrounds the node.
8. Node/s: This is the solid portion of the culm and is also a point from which a leaf or a tiller or adventi
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104
tious roots originate. The pigmentation varies from light purple, violet to dark purple. Nodes by defini
tion refer to joints of the grass stem, each supporting a new leaf, punctuated by knobby swelling.
9. Nodal ring: This is a part of the stem which is just below the node .the pigmentation in this part is usu
ally inseparable from that of node – but in few cases the pigmentation in the nodal ring can be distin
guished from that of node. The color of this part is best observed by taking transverse section of the cen
tral nodal septum whose pigmentation varies from green, white, yellow to light purple, dark purple, vio
let and black.
10. Internode/s: The portion of the stem between two joints or nodes. It is the smooth solid (when young) or
hollow (when matured) part of the culm, short basally and long apically between the successive nodes.
The pigmentation in this part varies from faint purple lines to full purple almost as black, the yellowish
color is also seen. The pigmentation is usually observed when the plant is at flowering stage.
11. Leaf axil: It refers to the basal portion of the inside of the leaf sheath. The pigmentation in the axil varies
in intensity from light to dark purple either restricted at its lower portion or gets extended in its distribu
tion.
12. Ligules: The outgrowth of the upper and inner side of the grass leaf at the point where it joins the leaf
sheath. It provides additional support for the leaf as it grows away from the stem. This is also described
as a thin upright membranous structure present on the inside of the juncture at its base where the blade
joins the leaf sheath. It is often bi-lobed, ciliate or glabrous. The pigmentation in this part varies from few
purple specks to full purple and white.
13. Auricle/s: The turned, reinforced portion of the leaf blade as it leaves the leaf sheath at the collar region.
These are a pair of small, ear-like appendages borne at base of the blade, arise usually at the sides where
the ligule and the base of the juncture are joined. These structures may drop off in the older leaves.
Auricles may be colorless or with various shades of purple color.
14. Junctura (Collar): It is the triangular joint portion found ate the junction of the leaf sheath and leaf blade.
The pigmentation in juncture is independent of that in leaf sheath or leaf blade.
15. Junctura (Collar) back: It is the portion of the midrib present at the junction of leaf blade and leaf sheath
behind the Junctura. In the most of the varieties the pigment in the junctura and that in the junctura back
is completely associated but in certain varieties, the two are independently inherited.
16. Panicle base: It refers to the nearly solid node between the upper most internode of the first primary
branches of the panicle and usually bears no leaf or dormant bud.
17. Panicle axis: It refers to the main axis of the panicle that extends from the panicle base to the apex. The
axis is hollow except at the regions (nodes) where the primary panicle branches are borne.
18. Panicle pulvinus: It refers to the swelling in the axils the primary. Panicle branches are more noticeable
during panicle emergence.
19. Lemma: Chaffy bract or scale opposite the palea, the outer leaf or petal of the floret; it surrounds the actu
al reproductive plant parts.
20. Palea: Chaffy bract or scale opposite the lemma, the inner leaf or petal of the floret; it surrounds the actu
al reproductive plant parts.
21. Lemma/palea: These are the glumes enclosing the essential organs of the spikelet and at later stage, from
the husk or hull of grain. Perhaps there is no other character showing so much color variations as that of
lemma/ palea. Color in young stage and hence, observations are recorded twice once in the green stage
and next in ripening stage.
22. Glumes: Dry chaff-like bracts or leaves at the base of the spikelet; often these leaves or bracts provide
protection for the florets above them.
23. Anther: It refers to one of the male reproductive parts of the plant.
24. Stigma: It refers to one of the female reproductive parts of the plant.
25. Seed: A mature ovule; the essential part is the embryo contained within the integuments.
II. Morphological Characters/Traits:
1. Leaf blade length (cm): Length of leaf blade below flag leaf.
2. Flag leaf length (cm): Length of the leaf formed before panicle initiation.
3. Nature of node: It could be either straight or bent.
4. Plant Height: Height of the main culm from base (in cm)
5. Panicle type: Dense/loose or glabrous
6. Panicle length: Length of panicle of main tiller from panicle base (in cm)
7. Panicle exsertion: Distance from base of the flag leaf to the panicle base (in cm)
8. Shattering of seeds: No. of seeds fallen or shattered from the panicle (comparative)
The observations in respect of eight quantitative characters viz. plant height (cm), number of tillers, length (cm)
and breadth (cm) of leaf blade, length (cm) and breadth (cm) of flag leaf, panicle length and panicle exsertion
(cm) were recorded on five plants of each accessions at different stages of crop growth. The data on these quan-
titative characters were subjected to basic statistical analysis according to Gomez and Gomez (1980) by using
MSTAT-C and were classified as low, medium and high magnitude of expression using technique of frequency
intervals.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Cenchrus ciliaris L. is an important pasture grass. It is always as one of the potent components of rangelands
through out Oman during the collection missions. So far, at least 20 accessions have been registered in the four
collection missions carried by the staff of Seed and Plant Genetic Resources Lab, Ministry of Agriculture &
Fisheries since 1998 (Nadaf et al., 2000-2005). It occurs in all the regions of Oman right in the rangelands, road
sides, in the field and in the mountains along with other rangeland grasses. It is important mainly because of its
high yields, high level of nutrients, tolerance to drought conditions and crop pests and its ability to withstand
heavy grazing and trampling by livestock. Some strains are also good for forage during the wet season in the
tropics. It is often touted for its ability to increase the flow of milk in cattle and give a sleek and glossy appear-
ance to their coats. Cenchrut ciliaris L has also been used as folk remedies for kidney pain, tumors, sores and
wounds. It can be used as an anodyne (pain reliever), lactogogue (increase milk flow), diuretic, and as an emol-
lient.
105
106
Cenchrus ciliaris L. occurs as one of the potent components of rangelands through out Oman. It occurs in all the
regions of Oman right in the rangelands, road sides, in the field and in the mountains along with other rangeland
grasses.
Botanical Description:
Cenchrus ciliaris L is a perennial bunchgrass in the grass family (Poaceae). At maturity, it ranges in height from
10 to 150 cm (averaging 70 cm) tall. Stems of Cenchrus ciliaris can be either erect or decumbent, often forming
mats or tussocks. The leaf blades are bluish-green, 5 to 30 cm long and 2.5 to 11.0 mm wide, with the upper sur-
face soft hairy. The leaf sheaths of C.ciliaris are glabrous to sparingly pilose, 2 to 7 cm in length, and the ciliate
ligule is 0.5 to 1.5 mm. C.ciliaris can reproduce either vegetatively through rhizome or stolon production, or sex-
ually by seed. Flowering inflorescences of C.ciliaris are dense, cylindric, 2 to 13 cm long by 1.0 to 2.6 cm wide;
each inflorescence has 30 to 50 involucre bracts, and is colored purple, gray, or yellowish. Spikelets are either
solitary or clustered, and are surrounded by numerous conspicuous bristles. The spikelets are clustered into burs
(2 to 4 per bur), 2.5 to 4.5 mm long by 1.0 to 1.5 mm wide, lanceolate to ovate in shape, and gray to green. The
lower glume is 1.0 to 2.5 mm long, the upper glume 1.5 to 3.5 mm long, and the lower floret is either staminate
or sterile. The fruit is an ovoid caryopsis, 1.4 to 1.9 mm long by 1.0 mm broad (Hickman 1993; Duke 1983).
The results of present investigations have established distinct descriptors of six indigenous accessions of
Cenchrus ciliaris L. viz. MF 179, MF 185, MF 190, MF 192, MF 236 and MF 266 in respect of pigmentation
and morphological characters (Tables 1-6). All the accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L were characterized in
respect of as many as 22 pigmentation characters and 9 morphological traits. Table 7 presents means of eight
quantitative characters in six indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L. along with basic statistical parame-
ters viz. mean, minimum, maximum, Standard Error of Mean (S.Em.) and the range of values for their classifi-
cation in terms of their expression as short/less, medium and tall/more/high for each quantitative character. Six
indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L. have been described as follows based on their pigmentation pat-
tern, morphological and quantitative characters.
1. Accession No. MF 179:
It is tall (>74.89 cm) with medium tillering ability (24.90 to 34.77). It has bent nodes and hence, appears to have
spreading growth habit. It has medium (9.65 to 15.44 cm) leaf blade and long flag leaf (>12.16 cm). It has dense
panicles with high panicle exsertion (>8.00 cm). It shatters more number of seeds at maturity.
It has most of its studied plant parts green or colorless except culm base (purple), anther (yellow) and seed
(black), which are variously pigmented.
2. Accession No. MF 185:
It is short (> 60.27 cm) with high tillering ability (>34.77). It has bent nodes and hence, appears to have spread-
ing growth habit. It has short (<9.64 cm) leaf blade and short flag leaf (<7.67 cm). It has loose or glabrous pan-
icles with medium panicle exsertion (6.76 to 8.00 cm). It shatters more number of seeds at maturity.
Table 1. Anthocyanin pigmentation and morphological marker characters established in Cenchruscliliaris L. (Accession No. MF 179).
Marker Characters: Cenchrus cliliaris L. (Accession No. MF 179).
I. Pigmentation Characters (Anthocyanin pigmentation in):
1. Culm base Purple
2. Leaf blade Green
3. Leaf base Green
4. Leaf margin Green
5. Leaf tip Green
6. Sheath pulvinus Green
7. Pulvinus ring Green (covered)
8. Node Green
9. Nodal ring Green
10. Internode Green
11. Leaf axil Colorless
12. Auricle Colorless
13. Juctura Colorless
14. Junctura Back Colorless
15. Panicle puvinus Green
16. Panicle axis Green
17. Lemma/palea Green,
18. Lemma hair Green
19. Anther Yellow
20. Stigma Green,
21. Stigma feather Colorless
22. Seed Black
II. Morphological characters:
1. Leaf blade Medium
2. Flag leaf Long
3. Nodal nature Bent
4. Plant Height Tall
5. Tillering ability Medium
6. Panicle type Dense
7. Panicle length Long
8. Panicle exsertion High
9. Shattering of seeds More
107
108
Table 2. Anthocyanin pigmentation and morphological marker characters established in Cenchrusciliaris L. (Accession No. MF 185).
Marker Characters: Cenchrus ciliaris (Accession No. MF 185)
I. Pigmentation Characters (Anthocyanin pigmentation in):
1. Culm base Purple
2. Leaf blade Green
3. Leaf base Green
4. Leaf margin Green
5. Leaf tip Green
6. Sheath pulvinus Green
7. Pulvinus ring Green (not covered)
8. Node Green
9. Nodal ring Green
10. Internode Green
11. Leaf axil Colorless
12. Auricle Colorless
13. Juctura Colorless
14. Junctura Back Colorless
15. Panicle puvinus Green
16. Panicle axis Green
17. Lemma/palea Green
18. Lemma hair Green
19. Anther Yellow
20. Stigma Green,
21. Stigma feather Colorless
22. Seed color Black
II. Morphological characters:
1. Leaf blade Short
2. Flag leaf Short
3. Nodal nature Bent
4. Plant Height Short
5.Tillering ability High
6. Panicle type Loose
7. Panicle length Short
8. Panicle exsertion Medium
9. Shattering of seeds More
Table 3. Anthocyanin pigmentation and morphological marker characters established in Cenchrusciliaris L. (Accession No. MF 190).
Marker Characters: Cenchrus ciliaris (Accession No. MF 190)
I. Pigmentation Characters (Anthocyanin pigmentation in):
1. Culm base Purple
2. Leaf blade Green
3. Leaf base Green
4. Leaf margin Green
5. Leaf tip Green
6. Sheath pulvinus Green
7. Pulvinus ring Green
8. Node Green (not covered)
9. Nodal ring Green
10. Internode Green
11. Leaf axil Colorless
12. Auricle Colorless
13. Juctura Colorless
14. Junctura Back Colorless
15. Panicle puvinus Green
16. Panicle axis Green
17. Lemma/palea Green
18. Lemma hair Purple
19. Anther Yellow
20. Stigma Green
21. Stigma feather Colorless
22. Seed Black
II. Morphological characters:
1. Leaf blade Medium
2. Flag leaf Short
3. Nodal nature Bent
4. Plant Height Short
5. Tillering ability Low
6. Panicle type Loose
7. Panicle length Medium
8. Panicle exsertion Medium
9. Shattering of seeds More
109
110
Table 4. Anthocyanin pigmentation and morphological marker characters established in Cenchrusciliaris L. (Accession No. MF 192).
Marker Characters: Cenchrus ciliaris (Accession No. MF 192)
I. Pigmentation Characters (Anthocyanin pigmentation in):
1. Culm base Purple
2. Leaf blade Green
3. Leaf base Green
4. Leaf margin Green
5. Leaf tip Green
6. Sheath pulvinus Green
7. Pulvinus ring Green
8. Node Green (covered)
9. Nodal ring Green
10. Internode Green
11. Leaf axil Colorless
12. Auricle Colorless
13. Juctura Colorless
14. Junctura Back Colorless
15. Panicle puvinus Green
16. Panicle axis Green
17. Lemma/palea Green
18. Lemma hair Green
19. Anther Yellow
20. Stigma Green
21. Stigma feather Purple
22. Seed Black
II. Morphological characters:
1. Leaf blade Long
2. Flag leaf Long
3. Nodal nature Bent
4. Plant Height Tall
5. Tillering ability Medium
6. Panicle type Dense
7. Panicle length Long
8. Panicle exsertion Less
9. Shattering of seeds More
Table 5. Anthocyanin pigmentation and morphological marker characters established in Cenchrusciliaris L. (Accession No. MF 236).
Marker Characters: Cenchrus ciliaris (Accession No. MF 236)
I. Pigmentation Characters (Anthocyanin pigmentation in):
1. Culm base Purple
2. Leaf blade Green
3. Leaf base Green
4. Leaf margin Green
5. Leaf tip Green
6. Sheath pulvinus Green
7. Pulvinus ring Green
8. Node Green (covered)
9. Nodal ring Green
10. Internode Green
11. Leaf axil Colorless
12. Auricle Colorless
13. Juctura Colorless
14. Junctura Back Colorless
15. Panicle puvinus Green
16. Panicle axis Green
17. Lemma/palea Green
18. Lemma hair Green
19. Anther Yellow
20. Stigma Green
21. Stigma feather Colorless
22. Seed Black
II. Morphological characters:
1. Leaf blade Medium
2. Flag leaf Medium
3. Nodal nature Bent
4. Plant Height Medium
5. Tillering ability Medium
6. Panicle type Loose
7. Panicle length Long
8. Panicle exsertion Medium
9. Shattering of seeds More
111
112
Table 6. Anthocyanin pigmentation and morphological marker characters established in Cenchrusciliaris L. (Accession No. MF 266).
Marker Characters: Cenchrus ciliaris (Accession No. MF 266)
I. Pigmentation Characters (Anthocyanin pigmentation in):
1. Culm base Purple
2. Leaf blade Green
3. Leaf base Green
4. Leaf margin Green
5. Leaf tip Green
6. Sheath pulvinus Green
7. Pulvinus ring Green
8. Node Green (covered)
9. Nodal ring Green
10. Internode Green
11. Leaf axil Colorless
12. Auricle Colorless
13. Juctura Colorless
14. Junctura Back Colorless
15. Panicle puvinus Green
16. Panicle axis Green
17. Lemma/palea Green
18. Lemma hair Green
19. Anther Yellow
20. Stigma Green
21. Stigma feather Colorless
22. Seed Black
II. Morphological characters:
1. Leaf blade Long
2. Flag leaf Long
3. Nodal nature Bent
4. Plant Height Medium
5. Tillering ability Medium
6. Panicle type Loose
7. Panicle length Long
8. Panicle exsertion High
9. Shattering of seeds More
Table 7. Means of eight quantitative characters in six indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris L.
Sl. NO. Accession Plant Number Leaf blade Leaf blade Flag leaf Flag leaf Panicle Panicle
No. Height of Length Bredth Length Bredth length exsertion
(cm) tillers (cm) (cm) (cm) (cm) (cm) (cm)
1 MF 179 75.50 25.00 17.66 0.37 12.33 0.30 7.16 8.83
2 MF 185 45.66 44.66 3.83 0.30 3.17 0.26 3.83 6.83
3 MF 190 55.66 16.33 11.83 0.40 7.66 0.36 6.33 7.00
4 MF 192 89.50 15.00 18.83 0.36 16.66 0.30 7.83 5.50
5 MF 236 66.00 28.00 14.50 0.47 9.33 0.37 8.33 6.83
6 MF 266 70.50 30.50 21.25 0.45 13.75 0.35 7.50 9.25
Mean - 67.14 26.58 14.65 0.39 10.48 0.32 6.83 7.37
Minimum - 45.66 15.00 3.83 0.30 3.17 0.26 3.83 5.50
Maximum - 89.50 44.66 21.25 0.47 16.66 0.37 8.33 9.25
SE.M.(±) 15.33 10.82 6.25 0.06 4.80 0.04 1.62 1.41
Short/Less <60.27 <24.89 <9.64 <0.36 <7.67 <0.30 <5.33 <6.75
Medium 60.28 to 24.90 to 9.65 to 0.37 to 7.68 to 0.31 to 5.34 to 6.76 to
74.89 34.77 15.44 0.41 12.16 0.33 6.83 8.00
Tall/More >74.89 >34.77 >15.44 >0.41 >12.16 >0.33 >6.83 >8.00
It has most of its studied plant parts green or colorless except culm base (purple), anther (yellow) and seed
(black), which are variously pigmented.
3. Accession No. MF 190:
It is short (>60.27 cm) with low tillering ability (<24.89). It has bent nodes and hence, appears to have spread-
ing growth habit. It has medium (9.65 to 15.44 cm) leaf blade and short flag leaf (<7.67 cm). It has loose or
glabrous panicles with medium panicle exsertion (6.76 to 8.00 cm). It shatters more number of seeds at maturi-
ty. It has most of its studied plant parts green or colorless except culm base (purple), lemma hair(purple), anther
(yellow) and seed (black), which are variously pigmented.
4. Accession No. MF 192:
It is tall (>74.89 cm) with low tillering ability (<24.89). It has bent nodes and hence, appears to have spreading
growth habit. It has long (>15.44 cm) leaf blade and long flag leaf (>12.16 cm). It has dense panicles with less
panicle exsertion (<6.75 cm). It shatters more number of seeds at maturity. It has most of its studied plant parts
green or colorless except culm base (purple), anther (yellow), stigma feather (purple) and seed (black), which are
variously pigmented.
5. Accession No. MF 179:
It is medium in height (60.28 to 74.89 cm) with medium tillering ability (24.90 to 34.77). It has also bent nodes
and hence, appears to have spreading growth habit. It has medium (9.65 to 15.44 cm) leaf blade and medium flag
113
114
leaf (7.68 to12.16 cm). It has loose or glabrous panicles with medium panicle exsertion (6.76 to 8.00 cm). It shat-
ters more number of seeds at maturity. It has most of its studied plant parts green or colorless except culm base
(purple), anther (yellow) and seed (black), which are variously pigmented.
6. Accession No. MF 179:
It is medium in height (60.28 to 74.89 cm) with medium tillering ability (24.90 to 34.77). It has also bent nodes
and hence, appears to have spreading growth habit. It has long (>15.44 cm) leaf blade and long flag leaf (>12.16
cm). It has loose or glabrous panicles with high panicle exsertion (>8.00 cm). It also shatters more number of
seeds at maturity. It has also most of its studied plant parts green or colorless except culm base (purple), anther
(yellow) and seed (black), which are variously pigmented. These descriptors will be used later in identifying sim-
ilar or different ecotypes that we find in our future collection missions.
CONCLUSIONS
The present investigations have established distinct descriptors of six indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliarisL. viz. MF 179, MF 185, MF 190, MF 192, MF 236 and MF 266 in respect of pigmentation and morphological
characters. All the accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris were characterized in respect of as many as 22 pigmentation
characters and 9 morphological traits.
REFERENCES
Chatterjee, B. N. and Das, P. K. (1989). Forage crop production- Principles and Practices. Oxford and IBH
Pub. Co. Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi. 450 p.
GRM. (1989). Rangeland revegetation project in the southern region –final report. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
MAF. (1990). Natural rangelands in the Southern Region. Rangeland and Forestry Department. Ministry of
Agriculture and Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
MI. (1999). Oman 98/99: The Oman Information Handbook. Ministry of Information. Sultanate of Oman. 266
p.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M. and Al-Hinai, S. A. (2004). Seed Production of indigenous rangeland forage
species in Oman. Seed Info. 2004. July 12-14.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M., Al-Hinai, S. A., Al-Adawy, M. H. and Al-Hinai, R. S. (2004a). Effect of inter-
row and inter-plant spacing on seed yield and its related traits of indigenous rangeland and forage grass
species grown under drips and sprinklers. Presented in ICARDA-APRP Annual Meeting held in Muscat.
February 2004. Annual Report 2003/2004. pp. 104-108.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M., Al-Hinai, S. A., Al-Adawy, M. H. and Al-Hinai, R. S. (2004b). Effect of matu-
rity stage on seed weight per se and seed quality in indigenous rangeland and forage grass species. Presented
in ICARDA-APRP Annual Meeting held in Muscat. February 2004. Annual Report 2003/2004. pp. 109-120.
RFD. (1995). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
RFD. (1996). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
RFD. (1997). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
Skerman, P. J. and Riveros, F. (1989). Tropical grasses. FAO Plant Production and Protection Series, no.23.
pp. 266-274 and 283-288.
UNDP/FAO. (1990). Project finding and Recommendations. UNDP Project OMA/87/O13- Establishment of
range management program for the Southern Region. UNDP, Salalah.
van Gastel, A. J. G., Pagnotta, M. A. and Porceddu, E. (Editors) (1996). Seed Science and Technology.
Proceedings of a Train –the-Trainers Workshop. 24 April to 9 May 1993, Amman, Jordan. International
Center for Agriculture Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), P.O. Box 5466, Aleppo, Syria. 311 pp.
Yassin, T. G. and Al-Shamfari, S. A. (1985). Rangelands in Oman: management, problems and prospects. First
Int. Range Management Conference in the Arabian Gulf, Kuwait.
Zaroug, M. G. (1983). The status of rangeland of the Southern Region of the Sultanate of Oman (Dhofar). FAO.
Zaroug, M. G. (1991). Rangelands of the Southern Region of Oman: Their characteristics and Aspects of
Development. FAO.
115
116
STUDIES ON NATURE OF REGENERATION OF
CACTUS (Opuntia spp.) ACCESSIONS IN CACTUS NURSERY
AbstractThe cactus nursery consisting of 38 accessions of different Opuntia spp. from different countries was established
during March-April 2005 under ICARDA-APRP. A total of 40 accessions that included 38 spineless accessions
known for its fodder use, received from the ICARDA-APRP office, Dubai and two spiny accessions known for
its fruits in Jabel Akhdhar Royal Farm, were planted in an un-replicated block at Rumais Research Station.
Studies on nature of regeneration of new pads among 40 cactus accessions of Cactus Nursery at ARC, Rumais
has clearly indicated that both accessions and recording times were highly significant (P<0.05) with respect to
regeneration of new pads. Interaction component was, however, not significant. Accession no. 69220 (OFI var
Lengissima) from Algeria had highest regenerated pads to the extent of 19.5 followed by accession no.
69241(OFI Thala) from Tunisia (16.50), accession no. 69248 (OFI Borj El Farag) from Beja- Tunisia (15.50),
accession no. 69245 (Ain –Bouderiess) from Tunisia (15.00), accession no. 73054 (O. faucicalis) from Afrique
Du Sud (14.50) and accession no. R-14 (Unknown) (14.50).
INTRODUCTION
Marginal lands are fragile ecosystems and when subjected to ploughing and indiscriminate vegetation removal
the result has been large-scale degradation and destruction of vegetative cover. The increasing scarcity of sever-
al indigenous plant species indicates the magnitude of genetic and edaphic losses. To reverse such desertifica-
tion trend and to restore the vegetative cover in marginal, semi-arid and arid areas, appropriate integrated pack-
ages can be applied for rangeland monitoring and natural resources conservation. This can be achieved by using
drought and desert tolerant species of cactus (FAO, 2001).
The cacti such as Opuntia species are important in arid zones because of their ability to (i) grow in “deserts” and
their drought tolerance; (ii) produce forage, fruit and other useful products; and (iii) mitigate long-term degrada-
tion of ecologically fragile environments (IFAD, 2003).
In view of the above, the cactus nursery consisting of 40 accessions of different Opuntia spp. from different
countries was established during March-April 2005 under ICARDA-APRP. The present studies on nature of
á°UÓÿG¬Ñ°ûd (GOQÉμjG) èeÉfôH øª°V ∂dPh 2005 ¢SQÉe ‘ ¢ù«eôdÉH á«YGQõdG çƒëÑdG á£fi ‘ π≤◊ÉH ¢ù∏e’G ÚàdG øe ÓNóe 38 áYGQR ”
ÚæKG ≈∏Y π≤◊G πªà°TG ɪc ¿Gƒ«ë∏d ∞∏©c É¡dɪ©à°S’ âaôY ¢ù∏eC’G ´ƒædG øe kÓNóe. 38 ≈∏Y â∏ªà°TG kÓNóe 40 øª°V .á«Hô©dG Iôjõ÷G
.Qôμe ¿hóH á«FGƒ°ûY ™£b ‘ π≤◊G áYGQR â“ .ô°†NC’G πÑ÷ÉH á«fÉ£∏°ùdG ´QGõŸG øe ⩪L ÉgQɪK ΩGóîà°SÉH âaôY »cƒ°ûdG ´ƒædG øe
»KGQƒdG πNóŸG øe Óch IójóL ìGƒdG Qƒ¡X ÚH ájƒb ájƒæ©e ábÓY OƒLh ÚàdG øe IójóL ìGƒdG êÉàf’ π≤◊G Gòg ≈∏Y äÉ°SGQódG âë°VhG
≈∏Y’G ôFGõ÷G øe 69220 πNóª∏d áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G OóY §°Sƒàe ¿Éc .äÉfƒμŸG ∂∏J ÚH …ƒæ©e ÒZ πNGóàdG ¿Éc ɪæ«H äGAGô≤dG òNG äGÎah
܃æL øe (14^5) 73054 πNóŸÉa ¢ùfƒJ øe (15) 69245 πNóŸÉa (15^5) (69248) πNóŸÉa (16^5) 69241 πNóŸG √ÓJ (19^5)
πNóŸÉa É«≤jôaG (R-14).(14.5)
regeneration of new pads in different accessions planted in the Cactus Nursery have been undertaken from May
to September 2005.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The cactus nursery consisting of 38 accessions of different Opuntia spp. from different countries was established
during March-April 2005 under ICARDA-APRP. A total of 40 accessions that included 38 spineless accessions
known for its fodder use, received from the ICARDA-APRP office, Dubai and two spiny accessions known for
its fruits in Jabel Akhdhar Royal Farm, were planted in an un-replicated block at Rumais Research Station. Four
paired-pads maximum of each cactus accession per row were planted in two rows at spacing of 2 m between
rows and 1 m between plants in a sandy soil under drip irrigation system. The drip lines were laid about at least
15 cm away from mother pads. About half-kg of FYM and about 20 g of 20: 20:20 NPK compound fertilizer per
hill were distributed before planting of pads. The pads were irrigated gently at weekly intervals for about an hour
so that each mother pad received about 2 liters of water of 1.2 dS/m. All the cactus accessions took about one
month to establish and show signs of sprouting new pads. No. of regenerated pads were recorded at two-month-
ly interval from May 9 2005 three times till September 13 2005. The data of observations was analyzed statisti-
cally as factorial CRD treating each of two rows of accessions as replicate and recording time and accessions as
factors according to Gomez and Gomez (1980) by using MSTAT-C.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Table 1 presents nature of regeneration of new pads i.e. mean number of new pads produced in various acces-
sions at three different times of recording.
Table 1. Nature of regeneration of new pads in different accessions at different times of recording
Sl.No.
1 4321 - 8 3 7.5 8
7 3.5 9.5 10
8 3.5 7 8
2 68247
3
4
69199
69210
Accession No.ECOTYPES AND/OR
VARIETIES
O.F.I DJ. BARGOU 68247
TUNISIA
MAXIMA V. LANCEOLATO
69199 ALGERIA
7 3 5 8O. TOMENTOSA
69210 ALGERIA
No. of regenerated pads
Time I(09.05.05)
Time II(28.07.05)
Time III(13.09.05)
No. ofpads
planted
117
118
Sl.No.
O. MAXIMA 69217 ALGERIA
O.F.I VAR LENGISSIMA
69220 ALGERIA
UNARMUS BURBAN 69223
ALGERIA
O.F.I THALA 69241 TUNISIA
O.F.I NOSTRALE FEMENI-
ANA 69234 CATANE - ITALY
O. SANGUINEA 69236 SICILE,
ITALIA
O.F.I THALA 69241 TUNISIA
O.F.I SBEITLA 69242 TUNISIA
AIN – BOUDERIESS 69245
TUNISIA
O.F.I AIN AMARA 69246
TUNISIA
O.F.I BORJ EL FARAG
69248 BEJA - TUNISIA
O.F.I GRASSA CAREF – 68
69219 ALGERIA
CAREFIN – 1 69198 ALGERIA
O.F.I VIB FP 2 73049
MEXIQUE
O. FAUSICALIS 73054
AFRIQUE DU SUD
O.F.I CHICO 73056
AFRIQUE DU SUD
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
8
7
7
9
8
7
7
8
7
5
8
8
8
8
8
8
3
9
1
1.5
2
1.5
6
5
4
3
6
5.5
5
4
6.5
4
9
17.5
4.5
7.5
5.5
4
15
9
11.5
5.5
13.5
8.5
5.5
12
12.5
8
10
19.5
5.5
9.5
6.5
5
16.5
14.5
15
8
15.5
12.5
6
12.5
14.5
9
69217
69220
69223
69233
69234
69236
69241
69242
69245
69246
69248
69219
69198
73049
73054
73056
Accession No.ECOTYPES AND/OR
VARIETIES
No. of regenerated pads
Time I(09.05.05)
Time II(28.07.05)
Time III(13.09.05)
No. ofpads
planted
119
Sl.No. Accession No.ECOTYPES AND/OR
VARIETIES
73058
73060
73062
73952
74071
74083
74110
74111
74112
75012
75018
75019
75032
CONLEA-L19
R-14
Nil-I
Nil-II
74112(29)
Jabel Akhdar-1
Jabel Akhdar-2
CARTHA 73058 TUNISA
TUMONTOSA 73060 INRAT,
TUNISIA
MAXIMA 73062 INRAT,
TUNISIA
O.F.I 73952 Medjez, El Bab
TUNISIA
O.F.I 74071 SBEITLA
O.F.I SEFROU 74083
MOROCCO
O. LAEVIS SP3 74110
NEW MEXICO
O. LAEVIS SP4 74111
NEW MEXICO
O. LAEVIS SP5 74112 MEXICO
DJ – SOLAH 75012 TUNISIA
EL BOROUJ 75018 MOROCCO
AIN JIMAA 75019 MOROCCO
O.SP. MADAGASCAR 75032
O.F.I CONLEA RUBESCENS
ALGERIA
UNKNOWN
UNKNOWN
UNKNOWN
O. LAEVIS SP5 74112 MEXICO
-
-
Mean
No. of regenerated pads
Time I(09.05.05)
Time II(28.07.05)
Time III(13.09.05)
No. ofpads
planted
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
6.5
2
2
3
5
5
5.5
3.5
6
4
4
3.5
4.5
8.5
5
6
6
3.5
2.5
0
8.3
10
4
6.5
5.5
5.5
7
8.5
6
11.5
6.5
6
8.5
7
14.5
13
10.5
10
5
3.5
4.5
10
11.5
5.5
7
9
7
10
10.5
10.5
11.5
11.5
7.5
10
8.5
9
14.5
12.5
11.5
8
5.5
5
8
8
7
5
7
8
5
8
6
8
6
8
6
7
6
6
9
6
4
6
8
Statistical parameters:
F-test LSD (5%)
Recording time ** 0.87
Accessions ** 3.17
Interaction NS -
120
The results indicated that both accessions and recording times were highly significant (P<0.05) with respect to
regeneration of new pads. Interaction component was, however, not significant(p>0.05). Regeneration of new
pads was slow but significant from first (8.3) to second (10.0) and third (10.9) recording times. Cactus acces-
sions showed highly significant (P<0.05) variation among themselves with respect to regeneration of new pads.
Accession no. 69220 (OFI var Lengissima) from Algeria had highest regenerated pads to the extent of 19.5 fol-
lowed by accession no. 69241(OFI Thala) from Tunisia (16.50), accession no. 69248 (OFI Borj El Farag) from
Beja- Tunisia (15.50), accession no. 69245 (Ain –Bouderiess) from Tunisia (15.00), accession no. 73054 (O. fau-
cicalis) from Afrique Du Sud (14.50) and accession no. R-14 (Unknown) (14.50) as compared to other cactus
accessions. These will be subsequently subjected for intensive multiplication of pads.
CONCLUSIONS
Studies on nature of regeneration of new pads among 40 cactus accessions of Cactus Nursery at Rumais Research
Station has clearly indicated that both accessions and recording times were highly significant (P<0.05) with
respect to regeneration of new pads. Interaction component was, however, not significant (P<0.05). Accession
no. 69220 (OFI var Lengissima) from Algeria had highest regenerated pads to the extent of 19.5 followed by
accession no. 69241(OFI Thala) from Tunisia (16.50), accession no. 69248 (OFI Borj El Farag) from Beja-
Tunisia (15.50), accession no. 69245 (Ain –Bouderiess) from Tunisia (15.00), accession no. 73054 (O. fauci-
calis) from Afrique Du Sud (14.50) and accession no. R-14 (Unknown) (14.50).
REFERENCES
FAO. (2001). Cactus (Opuntia spp.) as a forage. Edited by C. Mondragon-Jacobo and S. Perez-Gonzalez, and
coordinated for FAO by M.D. Sanchez, E.J. Arias and S.G. Reynolds. Produced within the frame work of the
FAO International Technical Cooperation Network on Cactus Pear. FAO Plant Production and Protection
Paper No. 169. 146 pp.
Gomez, K. A. and Gomez, A. A. (1980). Statistical procedures for agricultural research. Second Ed.
International Rice Research Institute., Philippines.
IFAD. 2003. Opuntia spp.: An efficient tool to combat desertification. Technical Advisory Notes: IFAD
Agriculture Technologies for Rural Poverty Alleviation. http://www.ifad.org/Irkm/tans/7.htm.
Mondragon-Jacobo, C., de Mendez-Gallegos, S. and Olmos-Oropeza, G. (2005). Cultivation of Opuntia for
fodder production: from re-vegetation to hydroponics. http:/www.fao.org//DOCREP/005/Y
2808E/y2808e0g.htm 08.08.2005.
121
STUDIES ON INFLUENCE OF PROPAGATION MATERIAL ON
REGENERATION OF CACTUS (Opuntia spp.)
AbstractOf the forty cactus accessions of the cactus nursery established during March-April 2005 under ICARDA-APRP,
two accessions viz. Accession no. 69220 (OFI var Lengissima) from Algeria that had highest regenerated pads
to the extent of 19.5 and accession no. 73049 (OFI VIB FB 2) from Mexique that had moderate number of regen-
erated pads (12.50) were used for study in the shade house of Agriculture Research Center, Rumais. Four types
of planting material namely 1. Whole pad, half pad, quarter pad and 1/8 pad were used as factors in two select-
ed cactus accessions. Each type of planting material was planted in four pots in June 2005. The observations were
recorded on each treatment for number of regenerated pads after one month of planting from July 20 2005.
Subsequently, recordings were continued at monthly intervals. A total five recordings have been made until last
recording of observation on November 20, 2005.The results indicated that all the main factors viz. accessions,
propagation material and counting time were highly significant (P<0.05) with respect to regeneration of new
pads. Only two-factor interaction between accessions x propagation materials was, however, highly significant
(P<0.05) while remaining interactions were found non-significant (P>0.05). Between the two accessions, no.
69220 (OFI var. Lengissima) from Algeria produced significantly (P<0.05) higher number of new pads (2.06) as
compared to other accession no.73049 OFI VIB FP2 from Mexique (1.70). In respect of propagation material,
whole pads produced significantly (P<0.05) highest number of new pads (2.85) followed by 1/2 pad (2.17), 1/4pad (1.85) and 1/8 pad (0.65). Thus, preliminary results of the investigation clearly revealed that irrespective of
the accessions, whole pads were found superior in regenerating significantly more number of new pads as com-
pared to 1/2 pad and 1/4 pad, which were 76% and 65% of whole pads.
INTRODUCTION
Marginal lands are fragile ecosystems and when subjected to ploughing and indiscriminate vegetation removal
the result has been large-scale degradation and destruction of vegetative cover. The increasing scarcity of sever-
al indigenous plant species indicates the magnitude of genetic and edaphic losses. To reverse such desertifica-
tion trend and to restore the vegetative cover in marginal, semi-arid and arid areas, appropriate integrated pack-
áá°°UUÓÓÿÿGG
(GOQÉμjG) èeÉfôH ∫ÓN øe 2005 ¢SQÉe ‘ ¢ù«eôdÉH á«YGQõdG çƒëÑdÉH ¢ü°üıG π≤◊ÉH ´QõæŸG ¢ù∏e’G ÚàdG øe ÓNóe 40`dG øª°V
(19^50) áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G Oó©d §°Sƒàe ≈∏YG ô¡XCG …òdGh ôFGõ÷G øe (69220) πNóŸG ɪgh Ú∏Nóe ΩGóîà°SG ” á«Hô©dG Iôjõ÷G ¬Ñ°ûd
â– ÚàdG áYGQR ¥ôW ¢†©H á°SGQód ∂dPh (12^50) áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G OóY ‘ êÉàf’G §°Sƒàe ¿Éc …òdGh ∂«°ùμŸG øe (73049) πNóŸGh
ΩGóîà°SG (3)h ìƒd ∞°üf ΩGóîà°SG (2)h πeÉc ìƒd ΩGóîà°SG (1) »gh ÚàdG ìGƒdG øe AGõLG ™HQG áHôŒ â“ .¢ù«eôdÉH á∏∏¶ŸG 䃫ÑdG ±hôX
ìGƒd’G OóY äGAGôb òNG π¡à°SGh 2005 ƒ«fƒj ‘ äGQôμe 4 ‘ á«μ«à°SÓH ¢ü°UG ‘ AGõL’G √òg áYGQR â“ .ìƒd øªK ΩGóîà°SG (4)h ìƒd ™HQ
Ωóîà°ùŸG Aõ÷Gh Ú∏Nóª∏d ájƒæ©e ábÓY OƒLh èFÉàædG äô¡XCG .äGAGôb ¢ùªN ´ƒªÛ ô¡°T πc Iôe ºK áYGQõdG øe ô¡°T ó©H áéàæŸG Iójó÷G
πNóŸÉH áfQÉ≤e (2^06) ÈcG ìGƒdG OóY §°Sƒàe ôFGõ÷G øe (69220) πNóŸG ≈£YG .áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G ™e äGAGô≤dG òNG øeRh áYGQõ∏d
OóY ‘ á«LÉàfG ≈∏YG πeÉμdG ìƒ∏dG ΩGóîà°SG ô¡XG áYGQõdG ‘ Ωóîà°ùŸG Aõ÷G ¤G ô¶ædÉH .(1^7) §°Sƒàe ≈£YG …òdGh ∂«°ùμŸG øe (73049)
ΩGóîà°SG ¿G á°SGQódG √ò¡d á«dh’G èFÉàædG âdO ó≤d .(0^65) øªãdG ºK (1^85) ™HôdG ºK (2^17) ∞°üædG ΩGóîà°SG ¬«∏j (2^85) áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G
ìGƒd’G OóY øe %65h %76 âfÉc »àdGh ìƒd ™HQ hCG ∞°üf ΩGóîà°SG óæY èàæj Éà áfQÉ≤e IójóL ìGƒdG êÉàfG ‘ Éjƒæ©e ¥Éa πeÉμdG ìƒ∏dG
.‹GƒàdG ≈∏Y πeÉc ìƒ∏H áéàæŸG
122
ages can be applied for rangeland monitoring and natural resources conservation (FAO, 2001). This can be
achieved by using drought and desert tolerant species of cactus. The cacti such as Opuntia species are important
in arid zones because of their ability to (i) grow in “deserts” and their drought tolerance; (ii) produce forage, fruit
and other useful products; and (iii) mitigate long-term degradation of ecologically fragile environments (IFAD,
2003).
Selection of propagation material depends on the purpose for which pads are grown. Joint paired pads are
extremely preferable as per FAO (2001) for intensive cultivation of Opuntia for forage production. However, for
immediate multiplication of pads in quick span of time, pad portions can also be used when propagation mate-
rial is scarce (Mondragon-Jacobo et. al. 2005) In view of the above, studies on influence of propagation materi-
al on regeneration of pads have been undertaken from June to November 2005 in the Shade house using two cac-
tus accessions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Of the forty cactus accessions of the cactus nursery established during March-April 2005 under ICARDA-APRP,
two accessions viz. Accession no. 69220 (OFI var Lengissima) from Algeria that had highest regenerated pads
to the extent of 19.5 and accession no. 73049 (OFI VIB FB 2) from Mexique that had moderate number of
regenerated pads (12.50) were used for study in the shade house of Agriculture Research Center, Rumais. Four
types of planting material namely 1. Whole pad, 2.half pad (vertical section), 3.quarter pad (vertical section) and
4.1/8 pad (vertical section) were used as factors in two selected cactus accessions. Care was taken to maintain at
least two to three areoles in each face of propagation material. Each type of propagation material was planted in
four pots containing sandy soil in June 2005. About half-kg of FYM and about 20 g of 20: 20:20 NPK compound
fertilizer per pot were distributed before planting of pads. The pads were irrigated gently at weekly intervals so
that each mother pad received about 2 liters of water of 1.2 dS/m. The observations were recorded on each
treatment for number of regenerated pads after one month of planting from July 20, 2005. Subsequently,
recordings were continued at monthly intervals. A total five recordings have been made until last recording of
observation on November 20, 2005. The data were subjected to statistical analysis considering factorial CRD
with three factors (accessions, planting material and counting time) according to Gomez and Gomez, 1980 by
using MSTAT-C.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Table 1 presents means of regenerated new pads in two cactus accessions from four propagation materials in five
counting times. The results indicated that all the main factors viz. accessions, propagation material and counting
time were highly significant (P<0.05) with respect to regeneration of new pads. Only two-factor interaction
between accessions x propagation materials was, however, highly significant (P<0.05) while remaining interac-
tions were found non-significant (P>0.05). Regeneration of new pads was slow but significant (P<0.05) from
first (0.94) to second (1.72) and third (2.25). Later, regeneration of new pads was apparently stopped in subse-
quent two counting times (2.25), indicating that after three months in cactus photosynthates of the new pads
would be used for further growth and development but not for reproduction (regeneration). Between the two
accessions, no. 69220 (OFI var. Lengissima) from Algeria produced significantly (P<0.05) higher number of
new pads (2.06) as compared to other accession no.73049 OFI VIB FP2 from Mexique (1.70). In respect of prop-
agation material, whole pads produced significantly (P<0.05) highest number of new pads (2.85) followed by 1/2
123
pad (2.17), 1/4 pad (1.85) and 1/8 pad (0.65). Between the two accessions, no. 69220 had significantly (P>0.05)
more number of new pads when planted whole pad (3.05), 1/2 pad (2.70), 1/4 pad (2.05) and 1/8 pad (0.45) as com-
pared to other accession no. 73049 in which whole pad, 1/2 pad, 1/4 pad and 1/8 pad produced respectively 2.65,
1.65, 1.65 and 0.85 new pads. Thus preliminary results of the investigation clearly revealed that irrespective of
the accessions, whole pads were found superior in regenerating significantly more number of new pads as com-
pared to 1/2 pad and 1/4 pad, which were 76% and 65% of whole pads.
Table 1. Means of regenerated pads in two cactus accessions from four propagation materials in five
counting times.
Time 1 (20.07.05) Time 2 (20.08.05) Time 3 (20.09.05)
Accession No. Whole 1/2 1/4 1/8 Whole 1/2 1/4 1/ 8 Whole 1/2 1/4 1/8
pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad
O.F.I
VAR
LENGISSIMA 1.75 1.25 0.75 0.25 3.00 2.50 2.00 0.50 3.50 3.25 2.50 0.50
69220
ALGERIA
O.F.I
VIB FP 2
73049 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.50 2.00 1.25 1.75 0.75 3.25 2.00 2.00 1.00
MEXIQUE
Mean
(Regeneration material 1.63 1.13 0.63 0.38 2.50 1.88 1.88 0.63 3.38 2.63 2.25 0.75
Mean (Time) 0.94 1.72 2.25
Time 4 (20.10.05) Time 5 (20.11.05) Mean
Accession No. Whole 1/2 1/4 1/8 Whole 1/2 1/4 1/ 8 Whole 1/2 1/4 1/8
pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad pad
O.F.I
VAR LENGISSIMA
69220 3.50 3.25 2.50 0.50 3.00 3.25 2.50 0.50 3.05 2.70 2.05 0.45
ALGERIA
O.F.I
VIB FP 2
73049 3.25 2.00 2.00 1.00 3.25 2.00 2.00 1.00 2.65 1.65 1.65 0.85
MEXIQUE
Mean Regeneration 3.38 2.63 2.25 0.75 3.38 2.63 2.25 0.75 2.85 2.17 1.85 0.65
Mean (Time) 2.25 2.25 1.88
124
Statistical Parameters:
F-test LSD (5%)
Accessions * 0.28
Regeneration material ** 0.39
Accessions x Regeneration material ** 0.56
Counting time ** 0.44
Accessions x Counting time NS -
Regeneration material x Counting time NS -
Accessions x Regeneration material x Counting time NS -
CONCLUSIONS
The preliminary results of the studies on influence of propagation material on regeneration of cactus (Opuntiaspp.) have indicated that irrespective of the accessions, whole pads were found superior in regenerating signifi-
cantly more number of new pads as compared to 1/2 pad and 1/4 pad, which were 76% and 65% of whole pads.
REFERENCES
FAO. (2001). Cactus (Opuntia spp.) as a forage. Edited by C. Mondragon-Jacobo and S. Perez- Gonzalez, and
coordinated for FAO by M.D. Sanchez, E.J. Arias and S.G. Reynolds. Produced within the framework of the
FAO International Technical Cooperation Network on Cactus Pear. FAO Plant Production and Protection
Paper No. 169. 146 pp.
Gomez, K. A. and Gomez, A. A. (1980). Statistical procedures for agricultural research. Second Ed.
International Rice Research Institute., Philippines.
IFAD. 2003. Opuntia spp.: An efficient tool to combat desertification. Technical Advisory Notes: IFAD
Agriculture Technologies for Rural Poverty Alleviation. http://www.ifad.org/Irkm/tans/7.htm.
Mondragon-Jacobo, C., de Mendez-Gallegos, S. and Olmos-Oropeza, G. (2005). Cultivation of Opuntia for
fodder production: from re-vegetation to hydroponics. http:/www.fao.org//DOCREP/005/Y
2808E/y2808e0g.htm 08.08.2005.
125
STUDIES ON INFLUENCE OF METHOD
OF PLANTING ON REGENERATION OF CACTUS (Opuntia spp.)
AbstractOf the forty cactus accessions of the cactus nursery established during March-April 2005 under ICARDA-APRP,
two accessions viz. Accession no. 69220 (OFI var Lengissima) from Algeria that had highest regenerated pads
to the extent of 19.5 and accession no. 73049 (OFI VIB FB 2) from Mexique that had moderate number of regen-
erated pads (12.50) were used for study in the shade house of Agriculture Research Center, Rumais. Three meth-
ods of planting namely 1. along the growing axis, 2. opposite of growing axis and 3. flat- submerged, were con-
sidered as factors in two selected cactus accessions. In each accession, half pads were used as propagation mate-
rial. Care was taken to maintain at least two to three areoles in each face of propagation material. Half pad of
each accession was planted in four pots containing sandy soil according to each method of planting in August
2005. The observations were recorded on each treatment for number of regenerated pads after two months of
planting from October 20, 2005. Subsequently, recordings were continued at monthly intervals. Only two record-
ings have been made until last recording of observation on November 20, 2005. The preliminary results indicat-
ed that all the main factors viz. accessions, planting method and counting time as well their interactions were not
significant (P>0.05) with respect to regeneration of new pads. The results indicated that there was no significant
difference between the methods of planting (P>0.05) with respect to number of new pads produced in each cac-
tus accession studied in both the counting times. However, numbers of new pads produced were numerically
higher in that method of planting where half pads were planted vertically along the growing axis (0.75) as com-
pared to flat-submerged (0.69) and planting opposite of growing axis (0.63). Between the two accessions, no.
73049 OFI VIB FP2 from Mexique produced numerically higher number of new pads (0.79) as compared to
other accession no. 69220 (OFI var. Lengissima) from Algeria (0.58). There was marginal insignificant rise in
the number of new pads from first counting time (0.67) to second counting time (0.71). Thus preliminary results
of the investigation clearly revealed that irrespective of the accessions, planting along the growing axis was
found numerically superior in regenerating more number of new pads as compared planting opposite of growing
axis and planting flat-submerged, which were 84% and 92% inferior to planting along the growing axis.
áá°°UUÓÓÿÿGG
(GOQÉμjG) èeÉfôH ∫ÓN øe 2005 ¢SQÉe ‘ ¢ù«eôdÉH á«YGQõdG çƒëÑdÉH ¢ü°üıG π≤◊ÉH ´QõæŸG ¢ù∏e’G ÚàdG øe πNóe 40`dG øª°V
(19^50) áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G Oó©d §°Sƒàe ≈∏YG ô¡XCG …òdGh ôFGõ÷G øe (69220) πNóŸG ɪgh Ú∏Nóe ΩGóîà°SG ” á«Hô©dG Iôjõ÷G ¬Ñ°ûd
â– ÚàdG áYGQR ¥ôW ¢†©H á°SGQód ∂dPh (12^50) áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G OóY ‘ êÉàf’G §°Sƒàe ¿Éc …òdGh ∂«°ùμŸG øe (73049) πNóŸGh
πμ°ûH (3)h ƒªædG Qƒfi √ÉŒG ¢ùμY (2)h ƒªædG Qƒfi √ÉŒÉH (1) ÚàdG ìGƒdG áYGQõd ¥ôW çÓK áHôŒ â“ .¢ù«eôdÉH á∏∏¶ŸG 䃫ÑdG ±hôX
òNG π¡à°SG äÉÑfG ¿ƒ«Y 3-2 OƒLh IÉYGôe ™e 2005 ¢ù£°ùZG ‘ äGQôμe á©HQCÉH á«μ«à°SÓH ¢ü°UG ‘ ìƒd ∞°üf áYGQR â“ .í£Ñæe
Ú∏Nóª∏d ájƒæ©e ábÓY OƒLh ΩóY èFÉàædG äô¡XCG .¤hC’G IAGô≤dG øe ô¡°T ó©H ºK áYGQõdG øe øjô¡°T ó©H áéàæŸG Iójó÷G ìGƒd’G OóY äGAGôb
√ÉŒÉH áYGQõdG á≤jôW ¿G èFÉàædG âdO .áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G ™e πeGƒ©dG √òg ÚH ɪ«a πYÉØàdGh äGAGô≤dG òNG øeRh áYGQõ∏d áeóîà°ùŸG ¥ô£dGh
ó≤d .(0^69) í£Ñæe πμ°ûH áYGQõdG óæY hCG (0^63)ƒªædG Qƒfi √ÉŒG ¢ùμY áYGQõdÉH áfQÉ≤e (0^75) ≈∏YG ìGƒdG OóY §°Sƒàe â£YG ƒªædG Qƒfi
126
INTRODUCTION
Marginal lands are fragile ecosystems and when subjected to ploughing and indiscriminate vegetation removal
the result has been large-scale degradation and destruction of vegetative cover. The increasing scarcity of sever-
al indigenous plant species indicates the magnitude of genetic and edaphic losses. To reverse such desertifica-
tion trend and to restore the vegetative cover in marginal, semi-arid and arid areas, appropriate integrated pack-
ages can be applied for rangeland monitoring and natural resources conservation (FAO, 2001). This can be
achieved by using drought and desert tolerant species of cactus. The cacti such as Opuntia species are important
in arid zones because of their ability to (i) grow in “deserts” and their drought tolerance; (ii) produce forage, fruit
and other useful products; and (iii) mitigate long-term degradation of ecologically fragile environments (IFAD,
2003).
Selection of propagation material depends on the purpose for which pads are grown. Joint paired pads are
extremely preferable as per FAO (2001) for intensive cultivation of Opuntia for forage production. However, for
immediate multiplication of pads in quick span of time, pad portions can also be used when propagation mate-
rial is scarce (Mondragon-Jacobo et. al. 2005). The preliminary results of our studies on influence of propaga-
tion material on regeneration of cactus (Opuntia spp.) have indicated that irrespective of the accessions, whole
pads were found superior in regenerating significantly more number of new pads as compared 1/2 pad and 1/4 pad,
which were 76% and 65% superior to whole pads. It is well known that in re-vegetation of the rangelands cac-
tus propagation material may be laid or thrown in any orientation on the initial moist surface of the soil at the
time of reseeding. It might lie in vertical orientation along or opposite to the growing axis and might lie flat on
the soil surface. In view of such expected changes in orientation of pads in re-vegetation process, the present
studies on knowing the influence of method of planting on regeneration of cactus (Opuntia spp.) pads have been
undertaken from July to November 2005 in the Shade house using two cactus accessions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Of the forty Cactus accessions of the cactus nursery established during March-April 2005 under ICARDA-
APRP, two accessions viz. Accession no. 69220 (OFI var Lengissima) from Algeria that had highest regenerat-
ed pads to the extent of 19.5 and accession no. 73049 (OFI VIB FB 2) from Mexique that had moderate number
of regenerated pads (12.50) were used for study in the shade house of Agriculture Research Center, Rumais.
Three methods of planting namely 1. along the growing axis, 2. opposite of growing axis and 3. flat- submerged,
were considered as factors in two selected cactus accessions. In each accession, half pads were used as propaga-
tion material. Care was taken to maintain at least two to three areoles in each face of propagation material. Half
pad of each accession was planted in four pots containing sandy soil according to each method of planting in
August 2005. About half-kg of FYM and about 20 g of 20: 20:20 NPK compound fertilizer per pot were distrib-
OóY §°Sƒàe ¿CG ɪc (0^58) ôFGõ÷G øe (69220) πNóª∏d ¬æY (0^79) ∂«°ùμŸG øe (73049) πNóª∏d ≈∏YG áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G OóY §°Sƒàe ¿Éc
√ÉŒÉH áYGQõdG ¿G á°SGQódG √ò¡d á«dh’G èFÉàædG âdO ó≤d .(0^67) ¤h’G IÎØdÉH áfQÉ≤e (0^71) ≈∏YCG ¿Éc á«fÉãdG IÎØdG ‘ áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G
%92h %84 âfÉc »àdGh í£Ñæe πμ°ûH áYGQõdG h ƒªædG Qƒfi √ÉŒG ¢ùμY áYGQõdG óæY èàæj Éà áfQÉ≤e IójóL ìGƒdG êÉàfG ‘ ¥Éa ƒªædG Qƒfi
.‹GƒàdG ≈∏Y ƒªædG Qƒfi √ÉŒG áYGQõdÉH áéàæŸG ìGƒd’G OóY øe
127
uted before planting of pads. The pads were irrigated gently at weekly intervals so that each mother pad received
about 2 liters of water of 1.2 dS/m. The observations were recorded on each treatment for number of regenerat-
ed pads after two months of planting from October 20 2005. Subsequently, recordings were continued at month-
ly intervals. Only two recordings have been made until last recording of observation on November 20 2005. The
data were subjected to statistical analysis considering factorial CRD with three factors (accessions, planting
method and counting time) according to Gomez and Gomez, 1980 by using MSTAT-C.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Table 1 presents means of regenerated new pads in two cactus accessions in three methods of planting in two
counting times. The preliminary results indicated that all the main factors viz. accessions, planting method and
counting time as well their interactions were not significant (P>0.05) with respect to regeneration of new pads.
Hence any interpretation of present results with respect to main factors and their interactions would be only com-
parative and logical but not with statistical confirmation. The results indicated that there was no significant dif-
ference between the methods of planting (P>0.05) with respect to number of new pads produced in each cactus
accession studied in both the counting times. However, numbers of new pads produced were numerically high-
er in that method of planting where half pads were planted vertically along the growing axis (0.75) as compared
to flat-submerged (0.69) and planting opposite of growing axis (0.63). Between the two accessions, no. 73049
OFI VIB FP2 from Mexique produced numerically higher number of new pads (0.79) as compared to other
accession no. 69220 (OFI var. Lengissima) from Algeria (0.58). There was marginal insignificant rise in the
number of new pads from first counting time (0.67) to second counting time (0.71).
Table 1. Means of regenerated pads in two cactus accessions in three methods of planting in two count-
ing times
Time 1 (20.10.05) Time 2 (20.11.05) Mean
Accession No. Along Opposite Flat- Along Opposite Flat- Along Opposite Flat-
growing of Submerged growing of Submerged growing of Submerged
axis growing axis growing axis growing
axis axis axis
O.F.I
VAR LENGISSIMA
69220 0.50 0.75 0.50 0.50 0.75 0.50 0.50 0.75 0.50
ALGERIA
O.F.I
VIB FP 2
73049 1.00 0.50 0.75 1.00 0.50 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.87
MEXIQUE
Mean (Regeneration
material 0.75 063 0.63 0.75 0.63 0.75 0.75 0.63 0.69
Mean (Time) 0.67 0.71 0.69
128
Statistical Parameters:
F-test LSD (5%)
Accessions NS -
Planting method NS -
Accessions x Planting method NS -
Counting time NS -
Accessions x Counting time NS -
Planting method x Counting time NS -
Accessions x Planting method x Counting time NS -
Thus preliminary results of the investigation clearly revealed that irrespective of the accessions, planting along
the growing axis was found numerically superior in regenerating more number of new pads as compared plant-
ing opposite of growing axis and planting flat-submerged, which were 84% and 92% inferior to planting along
the growing axis.
CONCLUSIONS
The preliminary results of the investigation clearly revealed that irrespective of the accessions, planting along
the growing axis was found numerically superior in regenerating more number of new pads as compared plant-
ing opposite of growing axis and planting flat-submerged, which were 84% and 92% inferior to planting along
the growing axis.
REFERENCES
FAO. (2001). Cactus (Opuntia spp.) as a forage. Edited by C. Mondragon-Jacobo and S. Perez- Gonzalez, and
coordinated for FAO by M.D. Sanchez, E.J. Arias and S.G. Reynolds. Produced within the frame work of the
FAO International Technical Cooperation Network on Cactus Pear. FAO Plant Production and Protection
Paper No. 169. 146 pp.
Gomez, K. A. and Gomez, A. A. (1980). Statistical procedures for agricultural research. Second Ed.
International Rice Research Institute., Philippines.
IFAD. 2003. Opuntia spp. An efficient tool to combat desertification. Technical Advisory Notes: IFAD
Agriculture Technologies for Rural Poverty Alleviation. http://www.ifad.org/Irkm/tans/7.htm.
Mondragon-Jacobo, C., de Mendez-Gallegos, S. and Olmos-Oropeza, G. (2005). Cultivation of Opuntia for
fodder production: from re-vegetation to hydroponics. http:/www.fao.org//DOCREP/005/Y
2808E/y2808e0g.htm 08.08.2005.
129
ICARDA -APRP ACTIVITIES IN OMAN
(PHASES- I & II)
FORAGE & RANGE-LAND COMPONENT
AbstractICARDA-APRP activities in the rangeland component have been undertaken in Oman from early 1998 when the
ICARDA-APRP-MAF joint-collection missions were initiated for Northern Part of Oman in respect of Phase I
to Phase II which was concluded in December 2005. During this period, diversified activities were held in vari-
ous areas of rangeland component, which have been summarized in two parts-I. Salient Results and II.
Achievements. In salient results, ouputs of the activities concerning collection missions, seed multiplication,
interaction with salinity, agricultural practices for seed production, seed harvesting time, nature of seed harvest
and characterization of indigenous pasture species and establishment of seed technology unit have been briefed.
Besides, future prospects of collections and conservations and their expected benefits have been highlighted. In
salient achievements, as many as eleven outputs of ICARDA-APRP activities in the rangeland component hav-
ing practical implications for Oman have been enlisted.
ICARDA-APRP activities in the rangeland component have been undertaken in Oman from early 1998 when the
ICARDA-APRP-MAF joint- collection missions were initiated for Northern Part of Oman in respect of Phase I
to Phase II which was concluded in December 2005. During this period diversified activities were held in vari-
ous areas of rangeland component, which have been summarized in two parts-I. Salient Results and II.
Achievements, as follows.
I. SALIENT RESULTS
Collection Missions:
Collection missions in collaboration with ICARDA were begun in 1998 in which 68 seed accessions were col-
lected represented 28 taxa of northern Oman. In 2001 collection mission, as many as 23 seed accessions of dif-
ferent pasture plant species were collected. All these accessions have been sent to ICARDA genebank for preser-
vation.
Seed Multiplication:
Seed multiplication of some indigenous rangeland grass species was carried out to increase the quantity of seed
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.¢ù«eôdÉH QhòÑdG á«æ≤J IóMh AÉ°ûfEG ƒg
130
for further investigations and reseeding in degraded rangelands. In Sohar Research Station, such investigation
was carried out between March 2000 and February 2002 to produce seeds of Cenchrus ciliaris L and
Coelachyrum piercei L under drip irrigation system. As much as 13.6 kg of Cenchrus seed and 12.6 kg of
Coelachyrum seed were collected during that period. Bulk seed production as well as basic seed multiplication
plots will be established for different indigenous grass species in different Oman regions.
Interaction with salinity:
To study the response of indigenous rangeland species to varying levels of salinity, two experiments were car-
ried out. In the first one, the salinity was imposed directly after germination while in the second, the treatment
was commenced after the first cut. Cenchrus ciliaris L (Local & Australian), Coelachyrum piercei and Chlorisgayana (Katambora and Callide) were assessed for seven levels (Control, 1 dS m-1, 3 dS m-1, 6 dS m-1, 9 dS
m-1, 12 dS m-1, 15 dS m-1 and 18 dS m-1) of water salinity. Chloris gayana L was more tolerant than Australian
Cenchrus followed by local Cenchrus and then Coelachyrum. Grass species tend to lose capability of persisten-
cy if they are exposed to salinity stress from the stage of germination.
Agricultural Practices for Seed Production:
Investigations on seed production of Cenchrus ciliaris L and Coelachyrum piercei L under drip and sprinkler irri-
gation systems were done with two inter-row spacing (100 cm and 50 cm) and three inter-plant spacing (100 cm,
50 cm and 25 cm). The grass species gave high seed yield owing to the formation of more number of panicles
under wider row (100 cm) spacing that had low plant density.
Seed Harvesting Time:
Effect of maturity stage on seed quantity and quality for Cenchrus ciliaris L and Coelachyrum piercei L was
studied under two locations (Jimah and Rumais). Four stages were proposed- at physiological maturity (PM),
one week after physiological maturity stage (1WAPM) two weeks after physiological maturity stage (2WAPM)
and three weeks after physiological maturity stage (3WAPM). Gradual and significant decrease in seed
weight/inflorescence from physiological maturity (PM) to the subsequent stages. On the contrary, there was sig-
nificant increase (improvement) in germination % from PM to 1WAPM or 2 WAPM and then decrease at
3WAPM depending upon the time of harvest.
Interaction effect of harvesting time and maturity stage was highly significant in all the grass species.
Germination % was significantly higher at 2WAPM (51 to 69%) than that at preceding and succeeding stages.
Good quality seed could be harvested at this stage but the loss of seed weight/inflorescence at this stage from
1WAPM was found to be from 5 to >10% and significant. Germination % was significantly higher at 2WAPM
(51 to 69%) than that at preceding and succeeding stages.
Nature of Seed Harvest:
Two indigenous rangeland forage species viz. Cenchrus ciliaris L. (UAE) and Coelachyrum piercei L.(UAE)
were investigated along with Chloris gayana L., a popular perennial grass to understand influence of early and
131
late forming tillers on their seed weight (with husk) per se and seed quality in two locations for about a year.
Samples of inflorescences of both early and late forming tillers of three grass species were collected about one
week after physiological maturity (1WAPM) of inflorescences early forming tillers. The results of the investiga-
tions spanning five harvests indicated that early forming tillers possessed all seed related traits like inflorescence
weight (mg), seed weight (with husk)/inflorescence (mg), seed recovery (%) from inflorescence and germination
% significantly superior to late forming tillers in respect of grass species studied. Hence, it was recommended
that while harvesting seed in forage grass species emphasis should be given to harvest more proportion of seed
from early formed tillers than from late formed tillers to get optimum quantity of better quality seed. The results
have significance particularly in producing pre-basic, basic, breeder and foundation seed of grass species.
Characterization:
Characterization of selected indigenous forage species was achieved. Five promising species viz. Cenchrus cil-iaris L (8 accessions), Coelachyrum piercei L (1 accession), Lasiurus hirsutus L. (2 accessions), Panicumturgidum (3 accessions) and Pennisetum divisum (1 accession), were morphologically characterized. The results
of investigations have established distinct descriptors for these species in respect of morphological and pigmen-
tation characters. These descriptors will be used later in identifying similar or different ecotypes that we find in
our collection missions.
Seed Technology Unit:
Seed technology unit was established in collaboration with ICARDA in order to look after seed quality in terms
of germination, viability and vigor. This unit is currently working towards identifying the best methods for seed
production, appropriate time for seed harvesting, threshing and cleaning of grass species to store in small quan-
tities for short, medium and long period.
Future Prospects:
The Seed and Plant Genetic Resources Research Lab. has produced enough quantity of seed of indigenous eco-
type of Cenchrus ciliaris, which forms the main rangeland grass species in all areas of Northern Oman. This will
be used as a material for re-seeding in the rangelands.
Seeding of selected indigenous grass species will be done at selected sites just before or after first showers. As
a beginning, 16 sites, each of about half feddan, of rangelands, in the interior region have been subjected for
seeding with a local Cenchrus species during December 2004.
Benefits:
The degraded rangelands would be gradually expected to improve with all the indigenous grass species that are
used for reseeding as the grass components. As the spread of the grass species would be in arithmetic propor-
tion, the area would be expected to increase in hundreds of hectares that cover vegetation in the rangelands dom-
inated by indigenous grass species.
132
II. SALIENT ACHIEVEMENTS
1. Established forage productivity of existing forage grasses like alfalfa, Rhodes grass and their mixtures under
Oman conditions during 1998-2000.
2. Collection of 68 indigenous pasture plant species in Northern Oman during 1998.
3. Collection of 23 indigenous pasture plant species in Southern of Oman (Dhofar) during 2001.
4. Bulk seed production of indigenous Cenchrus ciliaris and Coelachyrum piercei during 2001-02.
5. Established seed productivity of indigenous Cenchrus ciliaris and Coelachyrum piercei during 2002-2004.
6. Established appropriate seed maturity stage for optimum production of quality seed in indigenous Cenchrusciliaris and Coelachyrum piercei during 2003-04
7. Accomplished morphological characterization of indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris (8), Coelachyrumpiercei (1), Lasiurus hirsutus (2), Panicum turgidum (3) and Pennisetum divisum (1) during 2001-2005.
8. Established response of indigenous accessions of Cenchrus ciliaris and Coelachyrum piercei to salinity in
comparison with popular Rhodes grass cultivars during 2001-2003.
9. Established 'Ex Situ (Field) Genebank' of indigenous pasture plant species that accommodates a total of 244
species of herb, shrub, tree and grass species.
10.Established 'Ex-Situ (Field) Genebank' of 38 exotic fodder cactus species.
11.Established 'Ex-Situ (Shade house) Genebank' of indigenous medicinal plant species that accommodates a
total of 101 species of rangelands, vegetable, field and fruit crops.
133
SUCCESS STORY �
CAN WE PRODUCE SEED OF INDIGENOUS PASTURE SPECIES IN HOT
HUMID GULF CLIMATE TO RE-VEGETATE OUR DEGRADED RANGE-
LANDS?
AbstractOman is endowed with rich diversity of pasture plant species ranging from different herb, shrub, tree and grass
species in the barren rangelands of all the regions as for the ones having forage value. The plant genetic resources
activities carried-out in relation to collection, conservation and utilization under ICARDA-APRP’s Phase I and
Phase-II for span of about seven years have lead to very productive results that virtually concluded in to a suc-
cess story to answer in affirmative a fundamental question that normally arises as to whether we can produce
seed of indigenous pasture species in hot humid Gulf climate to re-vegetate our degraded rangelands. This arti-
cle has been published by AARINENA in 2005 which is presented here for documentation.
INTRODUCTION
The Sultanate of Oman, situated at the eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula, facing the Arabian Sea and Gulf of
Oman, is the third largest country in the Peninsula occupying 309, 500 sq. km. It has a variety of topographical
features consisting of plains, wadis and mountains. The most important area for agriculture is the coastal plain,
which represents 3% of the total area. The mountain ranges occupy about 15% and the remaining area that occu-
pies 82% of the country is mainly sand and gravel desert (MI, 1999). The climate- that essentially consists of
warm, sunny winters and very hot summers- varies from region to region, with the coastal areas more humid than
the Interior and high altitude areas. In the South, Dhofar region has a moderate climate. With the exception of
Dhofar region in the South where monsoon rains occur between May and September, rainfall throughout most
of the country is generally light and irregular (<50 to 100 mm annually). Ground water is the main source for
irrigation and domestic use.
Oman has a large area of rangelands in the Arabian Peninsula. For instance, in Dhofar region itself, it has range-
land area of about 500 thousand hectares. Of late, these rangelands are slowly degraded due to prolonged spell
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IOÉY’ QhòÑdG √òg ΩGóîà°SGh á≤£æŸÉH IóFÉ°ùdG ájƒ÷G ±hô¶dG â– ∂dPh áæNódGh ó«Ñ∏dG πãe ájƒYôdG ¢ûFÉ°û◊G ¢†©Ñd á«∏ÙG ±Éæ°UC’G
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� Published in 2005 by AARINENA (Association of Agricultural Research Institutions in the Near Eastand North Africa), ICARDA West Asia Regional Program, P.O. Box 95076, Amman - Jordan.(AARINENA Publication : 2005/1)
134
of drought since early 1990s and rise in ground water salinity all along the coastal regions. Indiscriminate heavy
grazing is yet another factor for reduced availability of good quality forage species in the rangelands. The result
of degradation of rangelands has been endangerment or even loss of indigenous plant species, accompanied by
low rangeland productivity. Rangelands assessment of the Dhofar Jabal areas had identified a great trend in
decreasing productivity and quality (Zaroug, 1983 and 1991; Yassin and Al-Shanfari, 1985; UNDP/ FAO
Project, 1990; MAF, 1990; GRM, 1989 and RFD, 1995, 1996, 1997). Decline in range quality reflected in the
increased abundance of herbs of poorer quality species at the cost of good quality forages that are in the stage of
extinction due to over grazing. Decline in productivity on the other hand, is evidenced by lower forage yields
and increased dependence on concentrates and baled hay to maintain local herds. The loss of vegetation also
results in soil erosion and loss of wildlife habitat and food resources.
The indigenous pasture plants viz. herbs, shrubs, tree and grass species represent valuable genetic and econom-
ic resources that are in danger of being lost. Some species that currently have ecological and biodiversity values
may also have great economic value in the future as a source of adaptation to environmental stresses of heat,
drought and salinity. Oman recognizes the threat to its native pasture plant species. More than 100 germplasm
accessions of indigenous pasture species have been collected from the rangelands under ICARDA- APRP Phase
I during 1998 and Phase II during 2002, which are part of genetic diversity. In order to re-vegetate these degrad-
ed rangelands, seed of indigenous pasture species should be multiplied. Multiplication of seed of prioritized pas-
ture species has been one of the main objectives of 'rangeland component' of ICARDA-APRP Phase-II. In the
present investigation, series of experiments were conducted to streamline seed production procedures in two
indigenous pasture species viz. Cenchrus ciliaris L (UAE Accession No. MAF-120) and Coelachyrum piercei L.(UAE Accession No. MAF-116).
OBJECTIVES
i. Multiplication of seeds of prioritized pasture species from initial very low quantities (mg)
ii. Decide on appropriate inter-row and inter-plant spacing for maximizing seed yield of pasture species
iii.Decide on appropriate irrigation system for seed multiplication of pasture species
iv. Decide on appropriate time of maturity for harvesting maximum high quality seed in pasture species
v. Comprehend the possibility of re-vegetation of degraded rangelands of northern Oman that experience from
50 to 100 mm rainfall.
METHODS USED
In the beginning, bulk seed multiplication of two pasture species was taken up at Sohar Research Station under
drips in an area of 250 sq.m. following appropriate crop husbandry practices under drips during summer 2000
(Plates 1 to 2)
135
Subsequently during 2001-02, this task was extended at Livestock Research Center Rumais in an area of about
350 sq.m. to multiply seed of Cenchrus ciliaris.
Simultaneously several experiments were conducted from 2001 to 2003 under drips and sprinklers in modified
Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design to study the effect of inter-row (50 and 100 cm) and inter-plant
(25, 50 and 100 cm) spacing on seed yield of grass species (Plates 3 to 5).
The effect of maturity stage on seed weight per se and seed quality of grass species was studied in the same
experiment by sampling the inflorescences at physiological maturity (PM) and 1, 2 and 3 weeks after PM and
statistically analyzing seed weight/inflorescence and germination (Plate 6).
Plate 1. General view of the seed multiplica-tion plot of Cenchrus ciliaris L. atAgriculture Research Station, Sohar.
Plate 2. Collection of matured panicles inthe seed multiplication plot ofCenchrus ciliaris L. at AgricultureResearch Station, Sohar.
Plate 3. General view of an experimenton investigation of the effect of inter-rowand inter-plant spacing on seed yield ofindigenous rangeland grass species atLivestock Research Center, Rumais.
Plate 4. Plant stand of indigenousCenchrus ciliaris in 1x1 m spacing after IVth harvest at Livestock Research Center,Rumais.
136
Ultimately, seed of Cenchrus ciliaris L. was used for re-seeding an area of 2000 sq.mt. at unpro-
tected site in one of the wadis immediately after first showers during December 2002 to study the prospect of re-
vegetation and extend the same in as many as 20 sites in the Interior Oman during winter 2004.
RESULTS ACHIEVED
i. We were able to collect to about 13.6 kg seed (with husk) of Cenchrus ciliaris L. (with 34.37% germination)from initial 6 g and 12.6 kg seed of Coelachyrum piercei L. (with 37.62% germination) from initial 8 g fromeight harvests from the plots of 250 sq.m. laid at Sohar Research Station. About 37.50-kg seed of Cenchrusciliaris L. was harvested so far from Livestock Research Center, Rumais. The seed material is under utiliza-tion in our task of re-vegetation and other experiments. Non-synchronous formation of inflorescences andearly shattering of seeds were the problems faced during seed multiplication and harvesting the two pasturespecies (Nadaf et al. 2004).
ii. The grass species produced higher mean seed yield (with husk) under wider rows (100 cm) than under nar-row rows (50 cm) in both the irrigation systems during each harvest. Under drips, Cenchrus ciliaris L. pro-duced significantly higher mean seed yield of 356.20 kg/ha at 100 cm than at 50-cm row spacing (306.42kg/ha). Similarly, Coelachyrum piercei L. also produced higher seed yield of 291.91 kg/ha at 100 cm than at50-cm row-spacing (264.87). Under sprinklers, Cenchrus ciliaris produced higher seed yield of 270.60 kg/haat 100 cm than at 50-cm row spacing (245.36 kg/ha). Similarly, Coelachyrum piercei L. produced higher seedyield of 229.96 kg/ha at 100 cm than at 50-cm row-spacing (197.93 kg/ha). Higher seed yield was alsoobtained under wider inter-plant spacing in both the pasture species. The two grasses showed very low ger-mination % when tested immediately (1-2 weeks) after harvest not only for bulk seed (0 to 1.5%) but also forselected seed (0.8% to 2.8%). Mean germination % of grass species recorded after 12 months of harvests wassignificantly greater (52.62%) than that recorded after 5 months (33.67%) of harvests. Cenchrus ciliarisL.recorded significantly (P<0.01) highest germination % (49.68%) as compared to Coelachyrum piercei L.(38.71%). Selected seed had significantly (P<0.01) higher germination % (53.21%) than bulk seed (33.08%)
Plate 5.Collection of panicles for study-ing the effect of maturity stage on seedweight per se and seed quality in indigenousrangeland grass species.
Plate 6. Panicles of Cenchrus ciliaris L.harvested at physiological maturity stage.
137
(Nadaf et al., 2004(a)).iii.Drips irrigation system was found to be more appropriate for seed multiplication of pasture species as seed
yield levels under sprinklers were lower than those obtained under drips due to shattering of seeds by the fre-quent hits of sprinkler drops (Nadaf et al., 2004(a)).
iv. Seed of indigenous pasture species studied viz. Cenchrus ciliaris L. could be harvested just about a week (Fig1 and 2) after the crop attains physiological maturity to obtain optimum quantity of high quality seed (withgermination % of 51.24 to 58.57). Good quality seed could be harvested in winter than in summer duringwhich deterioration of seed was faster (Nadaf et al., 2004(b)).
Fig.1. Effect of maturity stages (PM (Physiological Maturity), 1, 2 and 3 Weeks After PhysiologicalMaturity (WAPM) on seed weight/inflorescence and germination % of Cenchrus ciliaris atLRC (Rumais).
Fig.2. Effect of maturity stages (PM (Physiological Maturity), 1, 2 and 3 Weeks AfterPhysiological Maturity (WAPM) on seed weight/inflorescence and germination % ofCenchrus ciliaris at JRS (Interior).
t (g
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(g)
tion
on
138
The average regenerated plant density ranged from 2.79/sq.m. to 6.78/sq.m recorded, respectively, three and nine
months after the task of seeding of Cenchrus ciliaris during December 2002 at a site in the wadi Sharadi (7 to
8).
About 47.66% of the plants were found grazed at the time of flowering by local goats and sheep. This site formed
primary source of these plants for further spread of their seed through either wind at maturity or run-off water in
the wadi after subsequent rains. The preliminary inspection after first showers made during second week of
January 2004 have indicated that the seeds have spread over 2 km all along the wadi where germinated seedlings
of Cenchrus ciliaris L. have been noticed. Re-seeding of local Cenchrus ciliaris L. was extended in 20 sites dur-
ing March- April 2004 in the Interior Oman immediately after late winter rains. The encouraging results have
been obtained from these sites.
CONCLUSIONS
Our studies clearly demonstrated that seed of indigenous pasture species like Cenchrus ciliaris L. and
Coelachyrum piercei L. could be produced in the Gulf climate throughout the year to re-vegetate degraded range-
lands of Oman. The seed yield (with husk) of Cenchrus ciliaris L. could be obtained to the extent of 306.42 to
356.20 kg/ha under drips and 245.36 to 270.60 kg/ha under sprinklers during each harvest. These seed yield (with
husk) levels of Cenchrus ciliaris are comparable with the seed yield levels reported elsewhere (10-60 kg/ha
(Skerman and Rivorose, 1989) and 100-200 kg/ha (Chatterjee and Das, 1989)). Our studies have demonstrated
for the first time that seed of indigenous pasture species viz. Cenchrus ciliaris L. could be harvested just within
couple of weeks after the crop attains physiological maturity to obtain optimum quantity of high quality seed
through out the year under the climatic conditions of Oman.
Plate 7. Closer view of germinated plantsof indigenous Cenchrus ciliaris L. in a wadiarea after three months of re-seeding.
Plate 8. Closer view of browsedplants of indigenous Cenchrus ciliaris in awadi area
139
REFERENCES
Chatterjee, B. N. and Das, P. K. (1989). Forage crop production- Principles and Practices. Oxford and IBH
Pub. Co. Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi. 450 p.
GRM. (1989). Rangeland revegetation project in the southern region –final report. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
MAF. (1990). Natural rangelands in the Southern Region. Rangeland and Forestry Department. Ministry of
Agriculture and Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
MI. (1999). Oman 98/99: The Oman Information Handbook. Ministry of Information. Sultanate of Oman. 266 p.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M. and Al-Hinai, S. A. (2004). Seed Production of indigenous rangeland forage
species in Oman. Seed Info. 2004. July 12-14.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M.,Al-Hinai, S. A., Al-Adawy, M. H. and Al-Hinai, R. S. (2004a). Effect of inter-
row and inter-plant spacing on seed yield and its related traits of indigenous rangeland and forage grass
species grown under drips and sprinklers. Presented in ICARDA-APRP Annual Meeting held in Muscat.
February 2004. Annual Report 2003/2004. pp. 104-108.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Farsi, S. M.,Al-Hinai, S. A., Al-Adawy, M. H. and Al-Hinai, R. S. (2004b). Effect of matu-
rity stage on seed weight per se and seed quality in indigenous rangeland and forage grass species. Presented
in ICARDA-APRP Annual Meeting held in Muscat. February 2004. Annual Report 2003/2004. pp. 109-120.
RFD. (1995). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
RFD. (1996). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
RFD. (1997). Annual Report of Rangeland and Forestry Department, Salalah. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
Skerman, P.J. and Riveros, F. 1989. Tropical grasses. FAO Plant Production and Protection Series, no.23. pp.
266-274 and 283-288.
UNDP/FAO. (1990). Project finding and Recommendations. UNDP Project OMA/87/O13- Establishment of
range management program for the Southern Region. UNDP, Salalah.
Yassin, T. G. and Al-Shamfari, S. A. (1985). Rangelands in Oman: management, problems and prospects. First
Int. Range Management Conference in the Arabian Gulf, Kuwait.
Zaroug, M. G. (1983). The status of rangeland of the Southern Region of the Sultanate of Oman (Dhofar). FAO.
Zaroug, M. G. (1991). Rangelands of the Southern Region of Oman: Their characteristics and Aspects of
Development. FAO.
140
ICBA ACTIVITIES - 2005
EVALUATION OF ELITE BARLEY (Hordeum vulgare L.), FODDER BEET
(Brassica campestris L.) AND CANOLA (Brassica nigra L.) GENOTYPES FOR
GREEN FODDER AND DRY MATTER PRODUCTIVITY UNDER SALINE
WATER CONDITIONS
AbstractSalinity tolerant lines of barley, developed by ICBA, and new varities of fodder beet and canola form excellent
screening material under saline conditions ranging from 5 to 15 dS/m. International Center for Biosaline
Agriculture (ICBA), Dubai has initiated collaborative research since winter, 2004-05 with Ministry of
Agriculture & Fisheries, Oman towards identifying high productive lines for green fodder or dry biomass or
grain yield under two sites having different soil and irrigation water salinity. The site at Murthada farm has sandy
soil with EC and pH of 6.90 dS/m and 7.50 at 0-15 cm depth and of 3.00 dS/m and 7.50 at 15-30 cm depth,
respectively recorded at the beginning of the experiments while the same soil had EC and pH of 3.08 dS/m and
7.90 at 0-15 cm depth and of 2.30 dS/m and 8.00 at 15-30 cm depth, respectively recorded after the harvest of
the experiments. The site at Biosaline Agriculture Research Farm (BARF) has sandy soil with EC and pH of
15.90 dS/m and 7.50 at 0-15 cm depth and of 17.20 dS/m and 7.50 at 15-30 cm depth, respectively recorded at
the beginning of the experiments while the same soil had EC and pH of 8.96 dS/m and 7.50 at 0-15 cm depth
and of 7.82 dS/m and 7.70 at 15-30 cm depth, respectively recorded a week before harvest of the experiments.
In case of barley, performance of genotype namely 91/2A was consistently stable and superior in yielding mean
green and dry matter yields of 23.03 t/ha and 5.20 t/ha over two diverse saline water conditions where as in case
of fodder beet, genotypes namely Turbo and Abondo were consistently stable and superior in yielding mean
green matter yields of 107.37 t/ha and 104.00 t/ha and dry matter tields of 14.41 t/ha and 13.17 t/ha respective-
ly, over two diverse saline water conditions. Canola genotypes, however, showed yielding ability of green mat-
ter (20.50 to 30.60 t/ha) as compared to general mean performance (mean green matter yield – 23.34 t/ha) of all
the varieties under the condition of high irrigation water salinity.
áá°°UUÓÓÿÿGG
‹hódG õcôŸG ™e ¿ƒ©àdÉH á«°ûeÉ¡dG »°VGQ’G ‘ áMƒ∏ª∏d á∏ªëàŸG ±ÓYC’G áYGQõH áHò©dG √É«ŸG QOÉ°üe ≈∏Y á¶aÉÙG ´hô°ûe øª°V
) á«ë∏ŸG áYGQõ∏dICBAøe Újƒà°ùe â– ∞∏©dG ôéæH øe πNGóe 7 h Ò©°ûdG øe πNóe 24 º««≤J , Ω2005 …ƒà°ûdG º°SƒŸG ∫ÓN â“ (
(¢ù«eôdÉH á«ë∏ŸG äÉJÉÑædG áYQõà øª°ù«°ùjO 16^5 - 14^78) h , (¢ù«eôdG »YQGõe óMCG áYQõà øª°ù«°ùjO 10^5 - 8^5) …ôdG √É«e áMƒ∏e
) Ò©°ûdG πNóe ô¡XCG . Ú©bƒŸG ÓμH §«≤æàdÉH …ôdG Ωɶf Ωóîà°SG . á«ë∏ŸG äÉJÉÑædG áYQõà ’ƒfÉμdG øe πNGóe 4 ¤EG áaÉ°VE’ÉH91/2A(
∞∏©dG ôéæH ÓNóe ¥ƒØJ ɪ«a áØL IOÉe QÉàμg/øW 5^20 h ô°†NCG ∞∏Y QÉàμg/øW23^03 ≈£YCG å«M Ú©bƒª∏d êÉàf’G §°Sƒàe ‘ ÉbƒØJ
)Turbo) h (Abondo14^41 h ô°†NBG ∞∏Y QÉàμg/øW 104^00 h QÉàμg/øW 107^37 êÉàf’G ¿Éc å«M Ú©bƒª∏d êÉàf’G §°Sƒàe ‘ (
πNóe) QÉàμg/øW20^50 øe ’ƒfÉμdG êÉàfEG ìhGôJ , ‹GƒàdG »∏Y áaÉL IOÉe QÉàμg/øW13^17 h QÉàμg/øWHobson30^60 ¤EG (
πNóe) QÉàμg/øWInterval .¢ù«eôdÉH á«ë∏ŸG äÉJÉÑædG áYQõà ∂dPh QÉàμg/øW 3^34 §°SƒàÃh ô°†NCG ∞∏Y (
141
INTRODUCTION
The Sultanate of Oman, the third largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, has about 72558.80 ha is currently
under cultivation of which fruits occupy as high as 57.82%, followed by perennial fodder crops (24.44%), veg-
etables (9.35%) and annual grain crops (8.39%) (MAF, 2004). Sultanate is categorized as arid country with low
rainfall and high evapo-transpiration (ET). Rainfall varies from less than 50 mm in central Oman to more than
300 mm in the mountains. Ground water is the main source of water for both domestic and agriculture use. Until
the mid-seventies water demand and supply were relatively well balanced. Subsequently high water demand has
led to over pumping and prolonged lack of rains has reduced the extent of recharge. These situations have been
progressively deteriorating the quality of both water and soil towards salinity because of seawater intrusion. The
affected areas are mostly the farms near the coast, which have abundant but saline water.
In the Sultanate barley (six-row type) is sown frequently with alfalfa. Traditionally, along the coast it is not
grown for grain but for fodder (90 ha). In the Interior, Sharqiya and the Western Hajar (50 ha), it is grown for
grains utilized mostly as a component of poultry feed. In Musandam, some land races (eg Cv.Doraqui) on a lim-
ited scale for human consumption. In these years, the countries in the Gulf region are laying emphasis on barley
cultivation because of huge market demands as animal feed and as green fodder. In Oman, barley comes to head-
ing in January-February in Batinah and mid-March in the interior areas. It is cut green for fodder along with the
alfalfa but it is not re-sown into the perennial stands of alfalfa. In the years to come, the Ministry has plans to
attain self-sufficiency in the barley production for feed concentrates. The Ministry distributes the seeds of intro-
duced varieties to farmers. In Oman, exotic fodder beet varieties were investigated between 1994 and 1997 for
their fodder production in winter under saline conditions up to 5 dS/m and it was found that the varieties tested
viz. Peramono, Petra and Anissa were able to produce green fodder yield between 94.62 to 144.22 t/ha in a span
of about 70-75 days (Nadaf et.al, 1998 and 2000). Canola, however, has not been tried earlier in Oman for green
fodder yield. There is a good scope for extending cultivation of winter fodder crops in salinity affected and water
resources limiting areas of coastal region by introducing saline tolerant and water stress tolerant varieties (Akhtar
and Nadaf, 2001). Under high saline conditions, existing cultivars/crops are unable to produce required biomass
in salinity affected lands to meet the demands of summer fodder. Salinity tolerant lines of barley, available at
ICBA, and new varities of fodder beet and canola form excellent screening material under saline conditions rang-
ing from 5 to 15 dS/m. International Center on Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), Dubai has initiated collaborative
research since winter, 2004-05 with Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries, Oman towards identifying high produc-
tive lines for green fodder or dry biomass or grain yield under saline conditions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
As a part of collaborative research activity with ICBA, evaluation trials of barley and fodder beet involving
respectively 24 and 7 elite genotypes were laid separately under drips in RCBD on 30.11.2005 on sites in a
farmer’s field (Murthada Farm) and Biosaline Agriculture Research Farm (BARF) at Rumais. Evaluation trial of
four canola varieties was laid in RCBD with four replications only at a site in BARF. Barley trial at Murthda
farm had four replications while that at BARF had three replications. However, fodder beet trials in both the loca-
tions had four replications.
142
The site at Murthada farm has sandy soil with EC and pH of 6.90 dS/m and 7.50 at 0-15 cm depth and of 3.00
dS/m and 7.50 at 15-30 cm depth, respectively recorded at the beginning of the experiments while the same soil
had EC and pH of 3.08 dS/m and 7.90 at 0-15 cm depth and of 2.30 dS/m and 8.00 at 15-30 cm depth, respec-
tively recorded after the harvest of the experiments. The site at BARF has sandy soil with EC and pH of 15.90
dS/m and 7.50 at 0-15 cm depth and of 17.20 dS/m and 7.50 at 15-30 cm depth, respectively recorded at the
beginning of the experiments while the same soil had EC and pH of 8.96 dS/m and 7.50 at 0-15 cm depth and
of 7.82 dS/m and 7.70 at 15-30 cm depth, respectively recorded a week before harvest of the experiments.
These farms have abundant quantity of irrigation water that was saline to the extent of about from 8.5 to 10.5
dS/m at Murthada farm and from 14.78 to 16.5 dS/m at BARF, respectively recorded just before commencement
and after the conclusion of trials.
In case of barley, 2-3 seeds of each genotype were planted sparsely by maintaining minimum of 10 cm plant to
plant distance in four 4-m drip rows that were 25 cm apart while in case of fodder beet and canola, 2-3 seeds of
each genotype were planted sparsely at plant to plant distance of 25 cm in four 4-m drip rows that were 50 cm
apart.
All the crop husbandry practices were followed as per national recommendations. At all the sites of the experi-
ments, FYM was incorporated at the rate of 12.5 t/ha. In case of barley, the crop was fertilized with 100 kg N/ha,
90 kg P2O5/ha and 60 kg K2O/ha in the form of urea (200 kg/ha), triple super phosphate (180 kg/ha) and potas-
sium sulphate (120 kg/ha). 1/2 of nitrogen and all of phosphate and potash were applied before sowing. The rest
of nitrogen was applied in two further splits, 1/2 after two weeks of sowing (after germination) and the test 1/2
after one month of planting. In case of fodder beet and canola, crops were fertilized with 80 kg N/ha, 60 kg
P2O5/ha and 60 kg K2O/ha in the form of urea (160 kg/ha), triple super phosphate (120 kg/ha) and potassium sul-
phate (120 kg/ha). 1/2 of nitrogen and all of phosphate and potash were applied before sowing. The rest of nitro-
gen was applied after one month of planting. The fertilizers were applied manually at 8-10 cm distance from the
plants.
The crops were irrigated through drips very gently till germination and later at two-day intervals. The crops were
excessively irrigated (approximately 10%) in terms of time after the soil attained to a stage of field capacity.
In case of barley, all the genotyes attained 25-30% flowering from 55 to 60 days days after planting. All the
genotypes were harvested for green forage between 65 and 70 days after planting in both the locations. In case
of fodder beet and canola, the varities were harvested for green fodder between 70 and 75 days after planting.
In barley, the observations on plant height (cm), number of tillers/sq.m and green forage weight/sq.m. were
recorded at harvest. In fodder beet, six agronomic-ancillary characters viz. leaf-top length (cm), tuber length
(cm), tuber width (cm), no. of leaves/plant, leaf-top weight (g/plant) and tuber weight (g/plant) were recorded a
week before harvest while at harvest two yield characters viz. leaf top green fodder weight (kg/sq.m) and fresh
143
tuber weight (kg/sq.m) were recorded. In canola, plant height (leaf top lenth), no. of leaves/ plant, green leaf top
weight/plant (g) and leaf top green fodder weight (kg/sq.m) were recorded. Green plant samples of all replica-
tions were taken to the laboratory for estimating dry matter percent for each genotype (AOAC, 1984). Dry mat-
ter weight was computed for each entry based on its dry matter %. In case of fodder beet, the data on leaf top
weight/ sq.m and tuber weight/sq.m were converted to total green and dry matter weights/ha. The data were sub-
jected to statistical analyses according to the methods of Gomez and Gomez (1984) using MSTAT-C.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Barley:
Table 1 presents means of four yield characters viz. plant height (cm), number of tillers/sq.m, green forage yield/
ha and dry matter yield/ ha, of barley genotypes recorded at harvest (50% flowering stage) along with statistical
parameters in the two locations (Murthada Farm and BARF). Barley genotypes were more diverse and signifi-
cantly different with respect to all growth and yield attributes (P<0.05). High CVs were found for all the char-
acters studied because of differential variation existed in soil salinity of experimental area in both the locations.
At Murthada Farm, under saline conditions of higher irrigation water EC to the extent ranging from 8.5 to 10.5
dS/m, five genotypes were identified to yield higher green matter (24.80 to 36.67 t/ha) yield than mean perform-
ance of all the varieties (mean green matter yield 20.11 t/ha) (Table 1). Of these, 21/2 D was found to produce
highest green forage yield of 36.67 t/ha followed by 91/2A (34.80 t/ha), 100/1 B (30.40 t/ha), 113/1 B (25.07
t/ha) and 60/1 A (24.80 t/ha). In respect of dry matter yield, 91/2 A was highest yielder with 8.11 t/ha, followed
by 21/2 D (6.91 t/ha), 58/1 A (5.38 t/ha), 100/1 B (4.89 t/ha) and 113/1 B (4.72 t/ha) as compared to general
mean yield of genotypes (6.43 t/ha).
At BARF, under saline conditions of higher irrigation water EC to the extent ranging from 14.78 to 16.5 dS/m,
five genotypes were identified to yield higher green matter (9.00 to 11.53 t/ha) yield than mean performance of
all the varieties (mean green matter yield 6.43 t/ha) (Table 1). Of these, 63/2 A was found to produce highest
green forage yield of 11.53 t/ha followed by 82/2 A (11.33 t/ha), 91/2 A (11.27 t/ha), 100/2 B (10.13 t/ha) and
AD187 (9.00 t/ha). In respect of dry matter yield, 63/2 A was highest yielder with 2.93 t/ha, followed by 82/2 A
(2.93 t/ha), 100/2 B (2.86 t/ha), 91/2 A (2.29 t/ha) and 91/1 A (2.00 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield of
genotypes (1.58 t/ha).
Out of these highest yielders, performance of genotype namely 91/2 A was consistently stable and superior in
both the environments yielding mean green and dry matter yields of 23.03 t/ha and 5.20 t/ha over two diverse
saline water conditions. Last year, among the barly genotypes studied, green fodder yield potential to the extent
of about 18 t/ha was realised at a salinity site with irrigation water having salinity ranging from 9.58 to 14.2 dS/m
during the period of crop growth. All the genotypes of the present investigations will have to be tested for anoth-
er year at the same location to confiirm the results. Later, five top yielding genotypes can be subjected further to
(1) investigate their response to different levels of salinity under shade house conditions and (2) evaluate in larg-
er plots in farmers' field.
144
Fodder beet:
Table 2 presents means of six agronomic- characters viz. leaf-top length (cm), tuber length (cm), tuber width
(cm), no. of leaves/plant, leaf-top weight (g/plant) and tuber weight (g/plant) and Table 3 presents means of six
yield characters viz. leaf top green fodder yield (t/ha), fresh tuber yield (t/ha), leaf top dry matter yield (t/ha),
tuber dry matter yield (t/ha), total green matter yield (t/ha) and total dry matter yield (t/ha) of seven fodder beet
genotypes recorded at harvest (when old leaves commence drying indicating complete development of tubers)
along with statistical parameters in the two locations (Murthada Farm and BARF). Fodder beet genotypes were
more diverse and significantly different with respect to all growth and yield attributes (P<0.05) except no. of
leaves (P>0.05). High CVs were found for all the characters studied because of differential variation existed in
soil salinity of experimental area in both the locations.
At Murthada Farm, under saline conditions of higher irrigation water EC to the extent ranging from 8.5 to 10.5
dS/m, three genotypes were identified to yield higher total green matter (125.67 to 127.80 t/ha) yield than mean
performance of all the varieties (mean green matter yield 110.56 t/ha) (Table 3). Of these, Abondo was found to
produce highest green matter yield of 127.80 t/ha followed by Turbo (125.87 t/ha) and Dana (125.67 t/ha). In
respect of total dry matter yield, Turbo was highest yielder with 17.36 t/ha, followed by Abondo(17.22 t/ha) and
Blizzard (16.25 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield of genotypes (13.71 t/ha). In respect of fresh (green mat-
ter) yields, Turbo was highest yielder for leaf top fodder with 70.67 t/ha, followed by Dana (67.40 t/ha) and
Abondo (63.13 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield of genotypes (55.47 t/ha) while for tuber yield Blizzard
was highest yielder with 69.20 t/ha, followed by Abondo (64.67 t/ha) and Dana (58.27 t/ha) as compared to gen-
eral mean yield of genotypes (55.10 t/ha). In respect of dry matter yields, Turbo was highest yielder for leaf top
fodder with 8.83 t/ha, followed by Abondo (7.03 t/ha) and Dana (5.68 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield
of genotypes (5.60 t/ha) while for tuber yield Blizzard was highest yielder with 11.81 t/ha, followed by Abondo
(10.19 t/ha) and Turbo (8.53 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield of genotypes (8.10 t/ha).
At BARF, under saline conditions of higher irrigation water EC to the extent ranging from 14.78 to 16.5 dS/m,
three genotypes were identified to yield higher total green matter (80.20 to 88.87 t/ha ) yield than mean perform-
ance of all the varieties (mean green matter yield 71.29 t/ha) (Table 3). Of these, Turbo was found to produce
highest green matter yield of 88.87 t/ha followed by Adagio (80.60 t/ha) and Abondo (80.20 t/ha). In respect of
total dry matter yield, Turbo was highest yielder with 11.47 t/ha, followed by Blizzard (10.06 t/ha) and Abondo
(9.13 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield of genotypes (8.75 t/ha). In respect of fresh (green matter) yields,
Turbo was highest yielder for leaf top fodder with 47.40 t/ha, followed by Abondo (44.20 t/ha) and Adagio
(43.93 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield of genotypes (36.97 t/ha) while for tuber yield Turbo was high-
est yielder with 41.47 t/ha, followed by Blizzard (37.60 t/ha) and Adagio (36.67 t/ha) as compared to general
mean yield of genotypes (34.31 t/ha). In respect of dry matter yields, Turbo was highest yielder for leaf top fod-
der with 6.93 t/ha, followed by Abondo (4.61 t/ha) and Adagio (4.15 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield of
genotypes (3.99 t/ha) while for tuber yield Blizzard was highest yielder with 7.41 t/ha, followed by Maestro (5.28
t/ha) and Turbo (4.54 t/ha) as compared to general mean yield of genotypes (4.76 t/ha).
145
Out of these highest yielders, performance of genotypes namely Turbo and Abondo was consistently stable and
superior in both the environments yielding mean green matter yields of 107.37 t/ha and 104.00 t/ha and dry mat-
ter tields of 14.41 t/ha and 13.17 t/ha respectively, over two diverse saline water conditions. In our previous
investigations during 1994-95 and 1995-96, fodder beets were found to yield green matter yields ranging from
94.62 t/ha (produced by variety, Petra) to 142.22 t/ha (produced by variety, Peramono) in sandy soil under saline
water conditions of about 5 dS/m (Nadaf et al., 1998 and 2000). All the genotypes of the present investigations
will have to be tested for another year at the same location to confiirm the results. Later, three top yielding geno-
types can be subjected further to (1) investigate their response to different levels of salinity under shade house
conditions and (2) evaluate in larger plots in farmers' field.
Canola:
Table 4 presents means of five yield characters viz. plant height (Leaf top length) (cm), number of leaves/plant,
green leaf top weight/plant, green matter yield/ha and dry matter yield/ha, of four canola genotypes recorded at
harvest (flowering initiation) along with statistical parameters at BARF. Canola genotypes were not significant-
ly different with respect to all growth and yield attributes (P>0.05). High CVs were found for all the characters
studied because of differential variation existed in soil salinity of experimental area in both the locations.
146
Tab
le 1
.M
ean
s of
fou
r agro
nom
ic c
hara
cter
s in
sali
ne
tole
ran
t b
arl
ey a
cces
sion
s of
ICB
A i
n t
wo l
oca
tion
s (M
urt
had
a F
arm
an
d
Bio
sali
ne
Agri
cult
ure
Res
earc
h F
arm
(B
AR
F).
Statistical ParametersLocations ** (5.96) ** (5.86) ** (0.76) ** (0.15)Genotypes * (10.53) NS NS NSLocations x Genotypes NS NS NS NSCV % 14.03 34.22 57.02 59.95
58/1
A
59/3
A
60/1
A
61/1
A
63/2
A
76/2
A
82/2
A
83/1
A
86/2
A
91/1
A
91/2
A
111/
4 A
116/
2 A
50/3
B
51/1
B
100/
1 B
100/
2 B
113/
1 B
6/1
D
21/2
D
57/2
D
ICA
RD
A 8
ICA
RD
A 2
0
AD
187
Mea
n
Plan
t Hei
ght (
cm)
No.
of
Till
ers
Gre
en F
odde
r Y
ield
(t/h
a)D
ry M
atte
r Y
ield
(t/h
a)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
74.3
3
81.3
3
82.0
0
74.3
3
80.0
0
81.6
7
74.6
7
88.3
3
77.6
7
79.6
7
89.3
3
86.6
7
85.6
7
83.6
7
64.6
7
75.6
7
82.6
7
68.0
0
80.0
0
88.0
0
81.6
7
86.0
0
72.3
3
68.0
0
79.4
3
55.3
3
54.3
3
57.3
3
52.6
7
49.0
0
56.0
0
48.3
3
60.6
7
58.0
0
51.0
0
49.0
0
56.6
7
56.6
7
52.6
7
55.0
0
45.0
0
59.6
7
45.0
0
49.6
7
62.0
0
56.6
7
50.0
0
45.3
3
52.6
7
53.2
8
64.8
3
67.8
3
69.6
7
63.5
0
64.5
0
68.8
3
61.5
0
74.5
0
67.8
3
65.3
3
69.1
7
71.6
7
71.1
7
68.1
7
59.8
3
60.3
3
71.1
7
56.5
0
64.8
3
75.0
0
69.1
7
68.0
0
58.8
3
60.3
3
66.3
5
72.3
3
63.3
3
72.0
0
54.6
7
67.3
3
67.3
3
66.0
0
67.0
0
49.6
7
59.3
3
81.0
0
57.3
3
53.0
0
42.3
3
69.6
7
81.6
7
52.6
7
70.0
0
66.3
3
79.6
7
31.3
3
41.6
7
59.3
3
51.6
7
61.5
3
56.6
7
88.0
0
86.0
0
55.0
0
53.3
3
82.3
3
40.6
7
113.
67
90.0
0
72.6
7
48.0
0
109.
67
70.3
3
49.0
0
98.0
0
78.3
3
70.6
7
65.6
7
93.6
7
95.3
3
99.6
7
75.0
0
62.0
0
98.6
7
77.1
8
64.5
0
75.6
7
79.0
0
54.8
3
60.3
3
74.8
3
53.3
3
90.3
3
69.8
3
66.0
0
64.5
0
83.5
0
61.6
7
45.6
7
83.8
3
80.0
0
61.6
7
67.8
3
80.0
0
87.5
0
65.5
0
58.3
3
60.6
7
75.1
7
69.3
5
21.2
0
19.7
3
24.8
0
16.0
0
19.3
3
22.5
3
19.6
0
21.6
0
18.8
0
22.1
3
34.8
0
19.7
3
19.8
7
16.4
0
14.9
3
30.4
0
16.1
3
25.0
7
22.1
3
36.6
7
8.00
12.6
7
12.1
3
7.87
20.1
1
5.40
5.07
4.53
7.07
11.5
3
3.40
11.3
3
6.50
3.87
6.67
11.2
7
4.93
3.60
7.40
3.80
6.07
10.1
3
3.80
7.47
4.93
3.73
6.70
6.07
9.00
6.43
13.3
0
12.4
0
14.6
7
11.5
3
15.4
3
12.9
7
15.4
7
14.0
5
11.3
3
14.4
0
23.0
3
12.3
3
11.7
3
11.9
0
9.37
18.2
3
13.1
3
14.4
3
14.8
0
20.8
0
5.87
9.68
9.10
8.43
13.2
7
5.38
4.16
4.47
3.01
3.29
3.88
3.54
3.95
3.85
3.94
8.11
3.95
3.98
3.49
3.26
4.89
2.89
4.72
4.14
6.91
1.97
2.81
2.54
1.57
3.95
1.39
1.19
0.82
1.76
2.93
0.85
2.93
1.63
0.95
2.00
2.29
0.97
0.93
1.47
1.01
1.84
2.86
0.91
1.91
1.25
0.77
1.79
1.53
1.83
1.58
3.39
2.68
2.64
2.39
3.11
2.37
3.24
2.79
2.40
2.97
5.20
2.46
2.46
2.48
2.14
3.37
2.87
2.82
3.03
4.08
1.37
2.30
2.04
1.70
2.76
Acc
essi
ons
SI
NO
.
Mur
thad
a
AR
CM
urth
ada
AR
CM
urth
ada
AR
C
M
urth
ada
AR
CM
ean
Mea
nM
ean
Mea
nF
arm
Far
m-1
Far
m
Far
m-1
Far
m
F
arm
-1F
arm
Far
m-1
Tab
le 2
. M
ean
s of
six a
gro
nom
ic-a
nci
llary
ch
ara
cter
s in
sali
ne
tole
ran
t fo
dd
er b
eet
acc
essi
on
s of
ICB
A i
n t
wo l
oca
tion
s (M
urt
had
a F
arm
an
d
Bio
sali
ne
Agri
cult
ure
Res
earc
h F
arm
(B
AR
F)
147
Bla
ze
Bliz
zard
Mae
stro
Ada
gio
Tur
bo
Abo
ndo
Dan
a
Mea
n
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
41.2
5
43.0
0
45.0
0
49.5
0
45.0
0
42.2
5
44.5
0
44.3
6
32.2
5
31.5
0
31.2
5
32.0
0
41.2
5
35.7
5
35.7
5
34.2
5
36.7
5
37.2
5
38.1
3
40.7
5
43.1
3
39.0
0
40.1
3
39.3
0
23.7
5
25.5
0
25.5
0
21.7
5
24.7
5
21.3
8
23.5
0
23.7
3
19.5
0
17.7
5
17.7
5
18.2
5
23.5
0
19.2
5
21.7
5
19.6
8
21.6
3
21.6
3
21.6
3
20.0
0
24.1
3
20.3
1
22.6
3
21.7
1
7.13
7.13
9.13
7.75
7.63
7.50
7.70
7.71
7.50
6.63
4.50
5.88
7.25
5.38
7.25
6.34
7.31
6.88
6.81
6.81
7.44
6.44
7.48
7.02
23.5
0
19.5
0
23.2
5
22.7
5
23.0
0
22.7
5
21.5
0
22.3
2
16.0
6
16.0
5
13.2
9
17.0
5
26.0
6
14.8
0
18.3
2
17.3
7
19.7
8
17.7
8
18.2
7
19.9
0
24.5
3
18.7
8
19.9
1
19.8
5
415.
00
402.
50
620.
00
572.
50
505.
00
452.
50
597.
50
509.
29
415.
00
255.
00
155.
00
292.
50
595.
00
362.
50
465.
00
362.
86
415.
00
328.
75
387.
50
432.
50
550.
00
407.
50
531.
25
436.
07
395.
00
397.
50
577.
50
482.
50
497.
50
455.
00
490.
00
470.
71
440.
00
222.
50
122.
50
232.
50
490.
00
235.
00
430.
00
310.
36
417.
50
310.
00
350.
00
357.
50
493.
75
345.
00
460.
00
390.
54
Red
dish
Whi
te
Whi
te
Whi
te
Lig
ht o
rang
e
Red
dish
Red
dish
Nam
e of
Gen
otyp
e
Lea
f ro
p le
ngth
(c
m)
Tub
er l
engt
h (c
m)
Tub
er w
idth
(c
m)
No.
of
leav
es
Lea
f to
p w
eigh
t(g
/pla
nt)
Tub
er w
eigh
t(g
/pla
nt)
Tub
erC
olou
rM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
n
SI
NO
.
Stat
isti
cal P
aram
eter
sLo
cati
ons
*(2.
53)
Gen
otyp
esN
sLo
cati
ons
x G
enot
ypes
Ns
CV
%13
.08
*(2.
27)
NS
NS
19.1
5
*(0
.66
)N
SN
S22
.46
Ns
Ns
NS
27.0
7
* (9
3.71
)N
sN
S 47
.07
*(9
7.9
7)N
sN
s59
.73
148
Bla
ze
Bliz
zard
Mae
stro
Ada
gio
Tur
bo
Abo
ndo
Dan
a
Mea
n
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
46.9
3
42.6
0
43.7
3
53.8
0
70.6
7
63.1
3
67.4
0
55.4
7
29.0
0
28.9
3
30.5
3
43.9
3
47.4
0
44.2
0
34.8
0
36.9
7
37.9
7
35.7
7
37.1
3
48.8
7
59.0
3
53.6
7
51.1
0
46.2
2
44.8
0
69.2
0
40.6
7
52.8
7
55.2
0
64.6
7
58.2
7
55.1
0
25.7
3
37.6
0
34.4
0
36.6
7
41.4
7
36.0
0
28.3
3
34.3
1
35.2
7
53.4
0
37.5
3
44.7
7
48.3
3
50.3
3
43.3
0
44.7
0
4.32
4.44
3.68
5.24
8.83
7.03
5.68
5.60
2.67
2.65
3.48
4.15
6.93
4.61
3.43
3.99
3.49
3.54
3.58
4.70
7.88
5.82
4.55
4.80
6.04
11.8
1
6.55
5.87
8.53
10.1
9
7.74
8.10
3.88
7.41
5.28
4.31
4.54
4.52
3.38
4.76
4.96
9.61
5.91
5.09
6.53
7.36
5.56
6.43
91.7
3
111.
80
84.4
0
106.
67
125.
87
127.
80
125.
67
110.
56
54.7
3
66.5
3
64.9
3
80.6
0
88.8
7
80.2
0
63.1
3
71.2
9
73.2
3
89.1
7
74.6
7
93.6
3
107.
37
104.
00
94.4
0
90.9
2
10.3
5
16.2
5
10.2
3
11.1
1
17.3
6
17.2
2
13.4
2
13.7
1
6.55
10.0
6
8.76
8.46
11.4
7
9.13
6.81
8.75
8.45
13.1
5
9.50
9.78
14.4
1
13.1
7
10.1
2
11.2
3
Nam
e of
Gen
otyp
e
Lea
f T
op G
reen
Fod
der
Yie
ld
(t/h
a)
Fre
sh T
uber
Yie
ld
(t/h
a)L
eaf
top
Dry
Mat
ter
Yie
ld(t
/ha)
Tub
er D
ry M
atte
r Y
ield
(t/h
a)T
otal
Gre
en M
atte
r Y
ield
(t/h
a)T
otal
Dry
Mat
ter
Yie
ld(t
/ha)
Mur
thad
a
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
nM
urth
ada
Far
m
AR
C
Far
m-1
Mea
n
SI
NO
.
Stat
isti
cal P
aram
eter
sLo
cati
ons
**(5
.09
)G
enot
ypes
* (
11.7
2)Lo
cati
ons
x G
enot
ypes
Ns
CV
%25
.89
**(2
.21)
NS
NS
31.4
8
**(1
.48)
NS
NS
35.7
2
**(1
.33)
* (
2.77
)N
S43
.52
**(6
.17)
* (
23.9
1)N
S26
.85
**(1
.41)
* (6
.65)
NS
57.2
4
Tab
le 3
. M
ean
s of
six y
ield
ch
ara
cter
s in
sali
ne
tole
ran
t fo
dd
er b
eet
acc
essi
on
s of
ICB
A in
tw
o l
oca
tion
s (M
urt
had
a F
arm
an
d B
iosa
lin
e
Agri
cult
ure
Res
earc
h F
arm
(B
AR
F)
Tab
le 4
.M
ean
s of
fiv
e yie
ld c
hara
cter
s in
sali
ne
tole
ran
t ca
nola
acc
essi
on
s of
ICB
A a
t B
iosa
lin
e A
gri
cult
ure
Res
earc
h F
arm
(BA
RF
)(R
um
ais
).
Sta
tist
ical
Para
met
ers
F-t
est
NS
NS
NS
NS
NS
CV
(%
)29
.21
35.4
951
.37
40.0
134
.07
Sl.
No.
Nam
e of
gen
oty
pe
Pla
nt
Hei
gh
t (L
eaf
Top
Len
gth
) (c
m)
No. of
leaves
/pla
nt
Gre
en L
eaf
Top
Wei
gh
t/p
lan
t (g
)
Gre
en M
att
er
Yie
ld (
t/h
a)
Dry
Matt
er
Yie
ld (
t/h
a)
1
Inte
rval
27.3
827.7
5235.0
030.6
03.5
2
2H
ob
son
27.8
816.2
5150.0
020.5
02.2
6
3H
yola
43
23.8
823.2
5160.0
021.4
32.0
6
4H
yola
60
23.1
330.7
5162.5
020.8
33.2
7
Mea
n25.5
624.5
0176.8
823.3
42.7
8
149
Under saline conditions of higher irrigation water EC to the extent ranging from 14.78 to 16.5 dS/m at ARC
Farm-1, canola genotypes showed yielding ability of green matter (20.50 to 30.60 t/ha) as compared to general
mean performance (mean green matter yield – 23.34 t/ha) of all the varieties (Table 4). Of these, variety, inter-
val was found to produce numerically highest green matter yield of 30.60 t/ha followed by Hyola 43 (21.43 t/ha),
Hyola 60 (20.83 t/ha) and Hobson (20.50 t/ha). In respect of dry matter yield Interval was highest yielder with
3.52 t/ha, followed by Hyola 60 (3.27 t/ha), Hobson (2.26 t/ha) and Hyola 43 (2.06 t/ha) as compared to gener-
al mean yield of genotypes (2.78 t/ha). This is the first time canola genotypes have been investigated for green
fodder in Oman. Hence, these genotypes of the present investigations will have to be tested for another year at
the same location to confiirm the results. Later, two top yielding genotypes can be subjected further to (1) inves-
tigate their response to different levels of salinity under shade house conditions and (2) evaluate in larger plots
in farmers' field.
REFERENCES
Akthar, M. and Nadaf, S. K. (2001). Scientific production of field crops in Oman. Ministry of Agriculture &
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman. 88 p.
AOAC. 1984. Official methods of analysis. 14th ed. Association of Official Analytical Chemists, Washington,
D.C. USA.
Gomez, K. A. and Gomez, A. A. (1984). Statistical Procedures for Agricultural Research. Second Ed. The
International Rice Research Institute, Philippines.
MAF. (2004) . Agriculture Statistics, 2003. Department of Agriculture Statistics. Ministry of Agriculture &
Fisheries. Sultanate of Oman.
Nadaf, S. K., Al-Khamisi, S. A., El-Hag, M. G., Al-Lawati, Ali H. and Akhtar, M. (2000). Productivity of
fodder beet (Beta vulgaris spp. vulgaris) under sprinklers in salinity affected arid lands of Oman. Emirates J.
Agric. Sci. 12: 20-32.
Nadaf, S. K., Ibrahim, Y. M., Akthar, M., El-Haj, M.G. and Al-Lawati, A. H. (1998). Performance of fod-
der beet in Oman. Annals of Arid Zone (India). 37: 377-382.