Range Management and Agroforestry is the official journal of the Range Management Society of India. It is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal that publishes original research, reviews, and case studies in the fields of forages, rangeland and agroforestry systems. The journal aims to promote scientific innovations and practical solutions for enhancing the productivity, resilience, and sustainability of forages, rangelands and agroforestry practices.
Floristic composition and ecological characteristics of the forest vegetation in the sub-mountainous hills of Punjab, India
Baseline data is crucial for assessing forest vegetation in a specific region. We found 297 species across 229 genera and 72 families, revealing an uneven distribution among them. Poaceae led with 29 genera and 40 species and followed closely by Fabaceae with 28 genera and 37 species. Herbaceous plants and trees accounted for the greatest number of plant species (81) and made up 27.27% of all species. The majority of the species, about 21.21%, were nanophanerophytes, which were followed by 59 species of hemicryptophytes and mesophanerophytes (19.87%). Microphyll accounted for 88 species (29.63%) of the total leaf spectrum, while nanophyll had 80 species (26.94%). The study area had 198 native species (66.66%) and 99 foreign species (33.33%) according to the phytogeographical analysis. A significant 77.10% of species are still unclassified, highlighting the necessity of thorough IUCN status assessments. Among all the plant species encountered, 32.66% flourished in natural forest, 15.82% in shrubberies, 12.12% in areas with water and dry slopes, 6.06% in areas with shade and 17.51% in plantations or cultivated areas. The data could aid in crafting management strategies for more effective and sustainable use of the forest landscapes in this sub-mountainous region.
Copyright (c) 2026 Varun Attri, Parminder Singh Sandhu, Manmohanjit Singh, Vijay Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Elucidating molecular and morpho-agronomic diversity of napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) germplasm lines
Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach) is recognized for its high-yielding potential, ease of propagation and adaptability across various ecological conditions, making it a superior fodder crop. This study aimed to evaluate genetic diversity and morpho-agronomic performance among 34 Napier grass genotypes using molecular and phenotypic characterization. The experiment was conducted across two locations: Ludhiana and Gurdaspur during 2022 and 2023. Molecular diversity was assessed using 33 polymorphic SSR markers. A total of 91 alleles were detected with an average Polymorphic Information Content of 0.43, indicating that the markers were highly informative for diversity analysis. Simultaneously, the genotypes were evaluated for 12 morpho-agronomic traits to identify superior lines for nutritional quality and high fodder yield. GGE biplot analysis identified LN-29, LN-31, LN-13 and Red Napier grass as stable and high-performing genotypes for green fodder yield and quality-related traits. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive correlations between green fodder yield and several traits. Hierarchical clustering grouped the genotypes into 3 distinct clusters. Analysis of variance showed significant effects of genotype, environment and genotype x environment interaction for most traits. The comprehensive evaluation led to the identification of promising Napier grass genotypes with exceptional morpho-agronomic performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gurmeet Kaur, Tarvinder Pal Singh, Mehak Ghai, Rahul Kapoor, Priti Sharma, Harpreet Oberoi, Arvinder Toor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Advanced seed invigoration techniques enhance germination performance of Trifolium species under salinity and drought stress
An experiment was carried out to evaluate the response of primed and unprimed seeds of red clover (Trifolium pratense) and white clover (T. repens) to drought and salinity stress during early seedling development. The study demonstrated that both stress conditions delayed seed germination in all treatments; however, primed seeds exhibited a comparatively enhanced germination response under both drought and salt stress compared to unprimed seeds. Key germination parameters, including germination percentage (G%), speed of germination (SG), seedling length, and vigour index, were notably higher under salt stress (NaCl) than under drought conditions simulated with polyethylene glycol (PEG), in both clover species. This indicates that salinity stress had a less severe impact on early seedling growth than drought stress. Hydropriming significantly reduced the mean germination time (MGT) and enhanced the SG, G%, and vigour index across all stress treatments relative to the control, suggesting its potential as an effective strategy to enhance stress tolerance in clover species during the germination stage.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sanjay Kumar, Swami S. R., Sripathy K. V., Suheel Ahmad, Vijay K. Yadav https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Production potential of dual-purpose pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) as an alternate crop under changing climatic conditions
A field experiment was conducted at Jammu, India, to evaluate the production potential of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) as an alternate crop under changing climatic conditions. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three cultivars and five fertility levels, with three replications. Pearl millet cultivar MBC-2 recorded significantly higher growth, yield attributes, yield, net returns (41258.27 Rs ha-1) and B:C ratio (1.52) compared to Pusa Composite-383 and the local variety. Whereas, among the fertility levels, F5-80:50:25 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5:K2O + 25 kg N through Farm Yard Manure (FYM) produced significantly higher growth and yield attributes, though it remained statistically at par with F4 (65:40:20 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5:K2O + 25 kg N through FYM). A strong positive correlation (r=0.87) was observed between dry matter accumulation and heat use efficiency.
Copyright (c) 2026 Meenakshi Gupta, Vikas Gupta, Brinder Singh, Vivek Bhagat, Shubam Jamwal, Banti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Optimizing boron and zinc application strategies to enhance seed yield and quality traits in finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.)
Boron (B) and zinc (Zn) deficiencies are widespread in Indian soils, limiting both seed yield and quality in finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn.). To address this, a two-year field study was conducted across two post-rainy seasons under semi-arid conditions. The experiment evaluated the effects of boron (B), zinc (Zn), B + Zn application along with absolute control (no micronutrient application) as foliar sprays at panicle initiation (PI), 50% flowering (FL), PI + FL and soil application (SA). The combined foliar application of B + Zn at PI and PI + FL stages consistently resulted in superior plant growth, reflected in increased plant height, number of productive tillers, and ear dry weight. It significantly outperformed individual nutrient treatments and the control. This treatment also recorded the highest seed and stover yields, harvest index, and improved seed quality traits such as germination, field emergence, and seedling vigor indices. Foliar feeding proved more effective than soil application, with sprays during early reproductive stages delivering the most pronounced benefits. However, economic analysis based on the benefit-cost (BC) ratio revealed that zinc applied alone at PI and PI + FL stages offered greater profitability compared to combined nutrient applications. This suggests that while B + Zn foliar sprays optimize biological performance, zinc-alone treatments are more cost-efficient. Overall, the findings underscore that synchronizing foliar applications of boron and zinc at key growth stages is a practical and scalable strategy to enhance seed yield potential and seed vigor in finger millet under semi-arid, micronutrient-deficient conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kannababu N., Gangaiah B., Niveditha M., Swarna, R, Das I.K., Tara Satyavathi C. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Evaluation of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum) cultivars for yield, quality and nutrients uptake in central Gujarat
Seventeen berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum) cultivars (13 belonging to the public sector and 4 from the private sector) were evaluated for agronomic parameters during the winter season (Rabi) in 2020-21 and 2021-22 in Anand, Gujarat. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Pooled data analysis of two years reveals that berseem cultivars differed significantly for green fodder, dry fodder and crude protein yields. Among cultivars, mean green fodder, dry matter, crude protein and crude fat yields ranged between 51.59 to 67.93, 9.65 to 12.75, 1.56 to 2.09 and 0.13 to 0.18 t ha-1, respectively. Public sector cultivar JHB 17-1 recorded highest green fodder, dry matter and crude protein yields of 67.93, 12.75 and 2.09 t ha-1, respectively. JHB 17-1 out yielded Wardan (check) by 9.41%, 14.25 and 19.43% for green fodder, dry matter and crude protein yields, respectively. For crude protein, crude fat, NDF, ADF and total ash contents, the values ranged between 15.33-16.48%, 1.25 to 1.62%, 33.07 to 37.96%, 25.46 to 28.89% and 9.52 to 11.01%, respectively. Amongst cultivars, non-significant differences were observed for these traits. Significantly higher K and Ca content were recorded in Miskawi-Alsir (1.37 %) and FSS-Agra (1.16 %) respectively. JHB 17-1 recorded higher N (334.16 kg ha-1), P2O5 (86.67 kg ha-1), K2O (188.16 kg ha-1) and Zn (268.31 g ha-1) uptake.
Copyright (c) 2026 Digvijay Singh, Ajoy Kumar Roy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Weather-dependent trends of Atherigona soccata Rondani infestation in sorghum
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the population dynamics of the sorghum shoot fly (Atherigona soccataRondani) during the Kharif season of 2020 at CCS HAU, Hisar. The research revealed a dramatic surge in the shoot fly population,escalating from 135 flies per trap to 243 flies per trap between the 29th and 38th weeks of the calendar year. The peak infestation,with 243 flies per trap, occurred in the third week of September, coinciding with the 38th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW),underscoring a critical period of pest activity. Our analysis identified significant correlations between shoot fly populations andkey climatic variables. A robust positive correlation was observed with the lowest temperature (r = 0.65**), evening humidity (r= 0.61**), and highest temperature (r = 0.35*), as well as average wind speed (r = 0.33*). Conversely, morning humidity (r = 0.38)and rainfall (r = 0.30) were found to be less influential, with their correlations not reaching statistical significance. Notably, thenumber of sunshine hours exhibited an inverse relationship (r = -0.01) that was statistically insignificant. These findings providecrucial insights into the climatic factors driving shoot fly infestations, highlighting the importance of temperature and humidityin pest management strategies. Understanding these dynamics is essential for optimizing control measures and mitigating cropdamage in sorghum cultivation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ritu Bhall, Bajrang Lal sharma, Sunita Yadav, G. Shyam Prasad, Kapil, Penumajji Ganesh Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The impact of rubber monoculture and agroforestry on soil nutrient dynamics: a comparative analysis
The expansion of rubber monoculture (RM) in tropical regions has led to significant land-use changes, contributing to soilacidification and nutrient depletion. This study evaluates soil nutrient status under three rubber-based land use types (RLUTs)in south-western Karnataka: rubber monoculture (RM), rubber agroforestry (R+AF) and rubber with natural vegetation (R+NV).Results indicated that RM exhibited significantly lower pH, SOC (38 and 71% lower than R+AF and R+NV, respectively) and basecations, but increased soil acidification and exchangeable Al³⁺ and H⁺ concentrations (p <0.05). RM exhibited significantly loweravailable nutrients compared with R+AF and R+NV (p <0.05), with reductions of 48 and 34% for N, 340 and 30% for P, 26 and 243%for Ca, 73 and 142% for Mg, 67 and 208% for Zn, and 57 and 74% for B, respectively. Available P, Zn and B were found deficientin soils, while iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) were in near toxic concentrations. Soil pH, exchangeable acidity and organic carbon(SOC) are critical in maintaining nutrient availability. SOC was positively correlated with available nutrients, namely N, K, Ca,Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn and B, while soil acidity was negatively correlated with available Ca and Mg content. The study recommendsavoiding RM or selecting rubber-based agroforestry systems or naturally managed rubber plantations incorporating legumes,cover crops or medicinal plants to improve nutrient availability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kaushik Saha, Anil Kumar K. S., K.M Nair, Lalitha M., Jagdish Prasad, Karthika K.S., Ramesh Kumar S.C., Ramamurthy V., S.P. Maske, Parvathy S., Sujata K., Jessy M.D., James Jacob P. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Influence of harvesting seasons on germination requirements and seed vigour of Lasiurus sindicus (Henr.)
Successful seed-based vegetation restoration and conservation efforts in arid sandy desert ecosystems rely heavily on the qualityof seeds sourced from native plant species. This study examines how seasonal variation influences seed germination, dormancy,and ecological strategies in Lasiurus sindicus, an important desert-adapted grass. Findings indicate that seeds collected duringthe summer (new) possess greater seed mass, germination synchrony, and germination percentage compared to winter-collectedseeds (old), which exhibited higher levels of dormancy. Physical structures, such as spikelets encasing the caryopsis (dispersalunit), were found to impede germination, while the removal of these structures (naked seeds) significantly enhanced germinationrates. L. sindicus exhibited a neutral photoblastic response, though light sensitivity for germination was more pronounced atmoderate temperatures. Overall, these results highlight the adaptive strategies employed by L. sindicus to regulate germinationtiming and improve seedling establishment under desert conditions. The study provides valuable insights for rangeland restorationand management, underscoring the need to understand seed dormancy mechanisms and germination behaviour to enhanceecological rehabilitation in arid ecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Archana Sanyal, Reena Rani, M. Patidar, Anil Patidar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Productivity and energy dynamics of forage oats (Avena sativa L.) as influenced by liquid bacterial inoculants
India possesses the world’s largest bovine population; however, milk and meat productivity remain lower than expected. At present, the availability of both green and dry fodder is far below the existing demand, and this gap is projected to widen further, underscoring the urgent need to enhance fodder production and management strategies. In addition, efficient energy use in agriculture is the need of the hour to minimize environmental impacts. In this context, the present investigation was carried out to study the impact of liquid bacterial inoculants on productivity and energy budgeting of forage oat (Avena sativa L.). The field experiments were conducted at Bathinda and Ludhiana with a total of 12 treatments of liquid bacterial inoculants in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) and replicated thrice. The treatment T11: RDF + Burkholderia seminalis + Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, recorded maximum growth and yield attributing traits at Bathinda and Ludhiana, respectively. Further, the correlation studies revealed a strong positive correlation between yield-attributing traits and productivity. The energy output varied from 781269.0 to 863972.0MJ/ha at Ludhiana and from 751460.5 to 851476.5 MJ/ha at Bathinda. The maximum energy output was recorded under treatment T11 at both Bathinda and Ludhiana. Therefore, it can be concluded that the application of liquid bacterial inoculants could play a predominant role in enhancing the productivity and energy audit (input-output relationship) of forage oats.
Copyright (c) 2026 Megha Verma, Gulab Pandove, Sukhdeep Kaur Brar, Harpreet Kaur Oberoi, Anu Kalia, Devinder Pal Singh, Amandeep Singh Sidhu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Melia dubia Cav. leaf fodder in-vitro ruminal fermentation and metabolizable energy vary with provenance and season
Cueing the shortage of green fodder, especially during lean periods and other inadequacies in the animal feed fodder sector anddespite an array of tree foliage being used traditionally and advocated scientifically, there is a need to explore more multipurposefodder species with higher digestibility for inclusion in livestock rations. The present study analyzed Melia dubia leaf fodder in-vitrodry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in-vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), in-vitro gas production (IVGP) and metabolizableenergy (ME@24 hours) and to ascertain variation across provenance and seasons (winter and summer). Study revealed significantvariation (p ≤0.05) in IVDMD (47.74–64.97%), IVOMD (86.97–89.88%), and ME (1.35–1.83 kcal) among selected provenances.Leaf fodder of Ahwa (P8) showed higher IVDMD, and higher IVOMD was of Kaprada (P4), whereas the highest IVGP, after 24hours, was for Chichinagawtha (P6) provenance leaf fodder. IVGP ranged from 24.37 to 38.95 mL @ 24 hours. Further, IVDMDand IVOMD were significantly higher (63.47 and 90.13%, respectively) for winter season fodder compared to summer. Whereassummer season leaf fodder recorded significantly maximum IVGP (35.69 mL, at 24 hours) and ME (1.73 kcal @ 24 hours) andcompared to winter fodder. Results revealed that IVGP gradually increased up to 24 hours and then decreased till 92 hours. Theinteraction effect due to provenance and season for IVDMD, IVOMD, IVGP and ME was also significantly different. Studiedindicated that M. dubia leaf fodder digestibility attributes are comparable with many other family tree species, as corroboratedby available published data, commonly fed to ruminants and livestock. Thus, the study illustrated that M. dubia leaf fodder hasgood digestibility and can be used as an alternate top feed fodder source to livestock during the winter season.
Copyright (c) 2026 S. S. Malek, N. S. Thakur, V. R. Patel, R. P. Gunaga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Potential of silvopastoral systems for the generation of ecosystem services in an Andean landscape in Tolima, Colombia
Livestock production systems have a great social, economic and environmental importance. The present research seeks toestimate the potential of the generation of ecosystem services (ES) of silvopastoral systems (SPS) in an Andean landscape in themunicipality of Roncesvalles, Tolima, Colombia. Two main research hypotheses were established: 1) land use systems have animpact on ES, and 2) carbon in fine roots is correlated with some edaphic variables, which in turn are indicators of ES. Some ESindicators were selected, such as soil bulk density (BD), total porosity (P), soil organic carbon (SOC) stock and fine root biomassdensity. Pits were made in the selected areas and samples were taken with an auger and cylinder at two depths: 0 to 10 and 10 to20 cm to analyze them. Higher SOC stock was estimated at a depth of 10 to 20 cm, while at depth 0 to 10 cm, a higher P was found.No statistical differences (p >0.05) in the carbon of fine roots between the treatments were detected, but there were greater valuesin the 0-10 cm depth than at 10-20 cm (20–30 and 6–8 t/ha, respectively). No statistical differences (p >0.05) in the other edaphicvariables were detected between systems, but significant differences (P<0.05) were found between soil depths. Fine roots werefound to have a positive impact on ES generation, as they improve soil quality indicators such as BD, P and SOC stock. Theseresults show an improvement in soil conditions when establishing the SPS, which in turn generates ES.
Copyright (c) 2026 Camilo Antonio Sierra Parada, Hernán J. Andrade https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Effect of Zinc application on growth and nutritional composition of sorghum fodder varieties
An experiment was carried out during the Kharif season of 2023 in the sub- tropical climate of Jammu in the Siwalik foothills ofnorth-west Himalaya. The soil was sandy clay loam, slightly alkaline, low in organic carbon, available nitrogen, zinc and mediumin accessible potassium and phosphorus. A factorial randomized block design with three replications was used with two factors,i.e, Factor A, which included two varieties, viz., V1- SSG and V2- CSV 33 MF and Factor B consisting of eight zinc fertilizationtreatments. N:P2O5:K2O @ 60:40:20 kg ha-1 was applied uniformly to all the treatments. CSV 33 MF (V2) variety had the noticeablygreatest crop growth metrics and crude protein at all the harvesting intervals. However, RDF + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 20 kgha-1and foliar application of ZnSO4 at 0.5% at 40 DAS and 80 DAS (F8) proved superior in terms of growth parameters and crudeprotein which was statistically at par with F6 at first cut and F7 at second and third cut. With regard to quality traits, numericallylowest NDF, ADF, hemicellulose, crude fibre and highest values of ether extract, ash content, DDM, DMI, RFV, RFQ and TDNwas recorded under CSV 33 MF (V2) and RDF + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 20 kg ha-1 and foliar application of ZnSO4 at 0.5% at40 DAS and 80DAS (F8). The findings indicate that variety CSV 33 MF with RDF + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 20 kg ha-1 + foliarapplication of ZnSO4 at 0.5% at 40 DAS and 80 DAS is more suitable for increased fodder quality.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sudha Verma, Manpreet Kour, Vijay Kumar, Simrandeep Kour, Bhim Singh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Influence of 20 years of anthropogenic disturbance, grazing, early fire, and selective cutting on aboveground biomass in savannah woodland of Burkina Faso, West Africa
Savanna ecosystems support low biomass per unit area, but they are more widespread than humid forests and could contributesubstantially to carbon storage. The objective of this study was to measure biomass accumulation in savannah woodland subjectedto disturbances such as grazing, early fire, and selective logging. Biomass was estimated indirectly using allometric equations.To this end, dendrometric variables measured sequentially since 1992 were used. For each measurement period, biomass wascalculated for each individual tree. Then, the individual biomass was added together to find the total biomass for each 2,500 m²(50 x 50 m) subplot for each 5-year period. A repeated measures analysis of variance was applied to the data, and a two-tailed testwas used to compare the means of the different treatments. Aboveground biomass increased from 50 to 67 t ha-1, representing35% increase over 20 years. This corresponds to an average annual increase of 0.8 t ha-1 year-1. The impact of early burning onroot biomass varied by location: while it had no significant effect in one area, it led to a marked reduction in fine root biomass inthe other. Aboveground, early burning consistently reduced wood density across both sites, though a negative impact on annualincrement was localized to only one. Selective cutting negatively affected coarse roots in the more sensitive area and reducedaboveground biomass across both study sites. Similarly, grazing impacted both fine and coarse roots in only one location butshowed no significant effect on aboveground biomass in either. Notably, the simultaneous application of early burning, grazing,and selective cutting resulted in a cumulative negative impact on aboveground biomass. The difference in the effects of disturbancesbetween sites suggests that the biophysical conditions of the sites must be considered when using them as management tools.
Copyright (c) 2026 Koala Jonas, Zida Didier, Louis Sawadogo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Tree diversity and carbon stock dynamics in the coffee-based agroforestry systems of Kodagu, Central Western Ghats of India
In coffee-based agroforestry systems under diverse shade tree patterns in Kodagu, Central Western Ghats, India, tree diversityand carbon stock were investigated in both Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora plantations spanning 4106 km2 during 2023-24and 2024-25. Six distinct shade patterns in coffee agroforestry systems were identified in this study based on the combination ofcoffee species and shade-tree composition. Two coffee species (C. arabica and C. canephora) were evaluated under three shade-treetypes: native species, mixed species (native + exotic) and exotic species (Grevillea robusta). These six shade patterns were assessedunder three management regimes: low, medium, and high. Field enumeration recorded tree density, basal area, species richnessand structural attributes using nested sampling approaches. Biodiversity indices such as the Shannon-Wiener index (SWI) andSimpson’s index (SI) evaluated species diversity and dominance, revealing maximum biodiversity in native and mixed shadesystems than in exotic species-dominated systems. The carbon stock distribution was studied across above-ground biomass(AGB), below-ground biomass (BGB) and soil organic carbon (SOC). Arabica plantations recorded higher total biomass (362.43Mg ha-¹) than Robusta (215.50 Mg ha-¹), with native and mixed shade systems outperforming exotic systems. SOC contributedover 50% to the total carbon stock, with significant variations across shade patterns and management regimes. Arabica systemsshowed higher carbon stock (353.06 Mg ha-¹) and CO₂ sequestration potential (1294.57 Mg C ha-¹) than Robusta systems (272.97Mg ha-¹ and 1000.88 Mg C ha-¹, respectively). Native and mixed shade systems exhibited superior SOC accumulation and carbonsequestration potential (1212.02 Mg C ha-¹ and 1194.81 Mg C ha-¹) compared to exotic systems (1036.34 Mg C ha-¹). These findingshighlight the ecological importance of native and mixed shade systems in enhancing biodiversity, carbon storage and soil health.The study advocates integrating native tree species for long-term sustainability and resilience in coffee agroforestry systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rudragouda, G. K. Girijesh, J. S. Nagaraja, H. K. Veeranna, Adivappar Nagarajappa, G. M. Devagiri, Somshekargouda Patil, Kishore Mote, M. Dinesh Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Comparison of foreign-origin alfalfa cultivars in terms of quality and macro- micro element contents under semi-arid climatic conditions of Turkey
This study was carried out to determine the quality and nutrient contents of some alfalfa cultivars of foreign origin under semi-aridclimatic conditions of Turkey and to compare them in terms of these characteristics. A total of 13 cultivars were used in the study,12 of which were of foreign origin and 1 of which was a standard cultivar. The study was established and conducted accordingto a randomized complete block design. There was no statistical difference among alfalfa cultivars in terms of CP, ADF, NDF,RFV, Ca, Mg and P contents. The highest K values were obtained from all cultivars except La Torre. The highest Fe content wasobtained from Iside; the highest Cu content from Iside, Bilensoy and Riviera vicentina; the highest Mn content from Iside andSabrina; and the highest Zn content from Iside. Higher values were obtained in the first year for ADF, NDF, Mg, Fe, Cu and Mn,and in the second year for RFV, P, K and Zn. As a result, although there were some differences among the cultivars in terms ofmicroelements, it was determined that there were no statistically significant differences among the cultivars in terms of macroelements (except K) and CP, ADF, NDF and RFV parameters, which are of great importance in animal nutrition. Therefore, itwas concluded that all alfalfa cultivars of foreign-origin produced high-quality forage comparable to standard cultivars and canbe used as an alternative to standard cultivars in semi-arid climatic conditions of Turkey.
Copyright (c) 2026 Erdal CACAN, Sanaz Yaryab https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Effect of lopping shrubs and planting density on forage productivity, carbon storage, soil health and economics of three-tier silvopasture systems
A field experiment was conducted on eleven years old three-tier silvopasture systems under semi-arid conditions at Jhansi, Indiato study the effect of lopping intensity, shrub species and planting density on forage productivity, carbon storage, soil health andeconomic return of three-tier silvopasture systems. Ziziphus mauritiana recorded significantly higher top feed (3.56 and 4.48 t/ha) and fire wood yields (4.11 and 5.05 t/ha) in association with Hardwickia binata as compared to Ziziphus xylopyrus respectivelyduring 2nd and 3rd years of study. In lopping management, lopping of shrubs and H. binata at 70% intensity recorded significantlyhigher top feed (2.81, 3.57 and 4.33 t/ha) and fire wood yields (3.80, 4.25 and 4.88 t/ha) than lopping at 50% intensity during 1st,2nd and 3rd years respectively. Planting of H. binata and shrub species in alternate row at 6x6 m spacing in three-tier silvopasturesystem resulted in significantly higher dry forage yields of Cenchrus ciliaris (9.35, 9.76 and 10.03 t/ha) as compared to 6x4 m spacingand 4x4 m spacing during 1st, 2nd and 3rd years respectively. Establishment of three-tier silvopasture systems on degraded landrecorded improvement in available nutrients and organic carbon in 3rd year of the experiment than initial year. Lopping of shrubsand H. binata in three tier silvopasture system at 70% intensity utilized by mixed herd of sheep and goats grazing at the rateof 3 ACU/ha recorded higher net return (INR 120689/ha) and benefit cost ratio (1.65) as compared to lopping at 50% intensity.
Copyright (c) 2026 S. N. Ram Ram, R. V. Kumar, M. M. Das, Avijit Ghosh, Kamini, A. K. Shukla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Response of aonla-based horti-pastoral systems to foliar application of micronutrients
A field experiment was conducted in a ten-year-old aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) based horti-pastoral system under semi-aridconditions to evaluate the effect of foliar application of boron and zinc on tree growth, fruit yield and quality, pasture productivity,and biomass carbon sequestration. Foliar sprays were applied twice annually, at flowering and after fruit set, for five consecutiveyears (2018-2023). Micronutrient application significantly improved growth parameters, fruit retention, yield, and fruit qualityof aonla trees. Among the treatments, the combined application of borax @ 0.5% + ZnSO4 @ 0.25% consistently recorded superiorperformance, resulting in the highest fruit yield and improved quality attributes. Pasture yield and quality were not significantlyinfluenced by micronutrient application to trees. Biomass carbon stock at the system level was enhanced under micronutrienttreatments, indicating that targeted foliar nutrition is an effective strategy for improving productivity and carbon sequestrationin mature Aonla-based horti-pastoral systems under semi-arid agro-climatic conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sunil Kumar, Manjanagouda Sannagoudar, Kamini, Avijit Ghosh, Amit Kumar Singh, R. V. Kumar, A. K. Shukla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Combining ability for yield, fodder traits, and grain micronutrient content in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) for arid zone farming systems
An experiment was conducted during two seasons (summer and kharif 2024) to evaluate general and specific combining ability andheterosis in pearl millet using a line × tester mating design comprising 15 female lines, 9 male testers, 135 hybrids, and one check.The study aimed to identify superior parental lines and cross combinations for grain and fodder yield, along with micronutrienttraits (iron and zinc content). Significant genetic variation was observed among parents, indicating diverse genetic potential.The variance due to specific combining ability (SCA) was higher than that of general combining ability (GCA), highlightingthe predominance of non-additive gene action for most traits. Among the parents, ICMB-04888 and ICMB-97111 (females) andRIB-13 and RIB-1501 (males) emerged as good general combiners for multiple traits. Crosses such as ICMA-04999 × RIB-3135-18,ICMA-97111 × RIB-494, ICMA-88004 × RIB-15S076, and ICMA-94333 × RIB-192 showed superior grain yield. For fodder yield,ICMA-05999 × RIB-15S076 and ICMA-05999 × RIB-20K86 were the most promising. Hybrids ICMA-99444 × RIB-1501, ICMA-02333× RIB-13, and ICMA-94333 × RIB-15177 recorded high iron content, while ICMA-94333 × RIB-15177, ICMA-04888 × RIB-1501, andICMA-96666 × RIB-192 showed high zinc content. Notably, ICMA-97111 × RIB-494 was best for both grain yield and plant height;ICMA-05999 × RIB-15S076 for plant height and fodder yield; and ICMA-94333 × RIB-15177 for dual micronutrient content. Thesesuperior hybrids hold significant potential for grain, fodder and biofortified pearl millet breeding programmes, especially underdryland and agroforestry-based farming systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 S. K. Jain, Omprakash, Rajdeep Jajoriya, Vikas Khandelwal, S. K. Sharma, Vaibhav Vaibhav Sharma, B. L. Dhaka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Sterculia foetida de-oiled seed cake proximate, mineral and secondary metabolite composition vary across different landscapes of southern Gujarat, India
We analysed variation in Sterculia foetida de-oiled seed cake (SFSC) proximate, minerals, secondary metabolites and volatilephytochemical composition across different landscapes of Gujarat, India. The sampling was done from eight landscapes fallingin three districts, namely Narmada (lies in Satpura mountain ranges and Narmada river basin), Navsari and Valsad (ArabianSea coast). Our findings revealed that de-oiled seed cake proximate attributes, namely crude protein (15.04), crude fiber (12.61),ether extract (6.38), acid insoluble ash (3.40), nitrogen-free extract (62.59) and total ash (3.31) varied significantly (p ≤0.05), exceptorganic matter (96.69), among the landscapes. Macro minerals, namely nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium, withoverall average percentage of 2.41, 0.43, 0.14 and 0.91%, respectively and micro minerals (ppm), namely zinc, iron, copper andmanganese composition exhibiting 218.44, 547.80, 9.44 and 156.24 ppm content, respectively, in SFSC also varied significantly.Findings also revealed that the percentage of secondary metabolites, namely total phenols (1.70) and tannins (1.10), variedsignificantly, excluding saponins content (0.78). Seed cake gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis revealed only twophytosterols, namely stigmasterol and β-sitosterol (51.73 and 48.21%, respectively). The study divulged that SFSC is a rich sourceof protein, contains good fat energy and soluble carbohydrates. Further, macro and micro mineral contents of seed cake werewell above the critical level and total phenols and tannin contents were well below the toxic limit. Stigmasterol and β-sitosterol,detected in seed cake, exhibit various beneficial properties. Hence, SFSC could be utilized as an alternate feed source for livestock.
Copyright (c) 2026 M. R. Prajapati, N. S. Thakur Thakur, V. R. Patel, A.A. Mehta, Y. A. Garde https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Seasonal dynamics of feed carbon footprint in sheep field flocks under semi-intensive system in Karnataka, Southern India
Feed management plays a crucial role in mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from livestock production systems. DespiteIndia possessing one of the largest sheep populations globally, information on the environmental impacts of sheep productionremains limited. The present study was conducted in Karnataka, South India, where over 400 sheep from 18 semi-intensive flockswere monitored over a two-year period. A cradle-to-farm-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) approach was employed in accordancewith ISO 14040/44 standards, using IPCC Tier 2 methodologies to quantify GHG emissions. Feed carbon footprint (CF) variedsignificantly across seasons, with the highest CF during winter (0.89 kg CO₂-eq day⁻¹ sheep⁻¹) and declining during the monsoonand post-monsoon (0.30–0.38 kg CO₂-eq day⁻¹ sheep⁻¹). Common grazing lands contributed 15 to 56% of total nutrient intake,depending on season, substantially reducing reliance on purchased feeds. Strategic incorporation of seasonal green fodder andcrop byproducts lowered feed-related emissions by up to 55 to 65% and reduced per day per sheep feed costs up to 12.2%. Thefindings highlight the critical role of seasonal forage availability in reducing both emissions and production costs, particularlyin dryland regions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mech A., Letha Devi G, M. Sivaram, A. P. Kolte, P. K. Malik, N. M. Soren, S. B. N. Rao, A. Dhali, Maya G https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
The The multifunctionality benefits of Gmelina arborea agroforestry systems: Insights into productivity, carbon sequestration, microbial ecology and economics in Central India
Agroforestry is increasingly recognized as a sustainable land use system in agriculture. To evaluate its effectiveness in terms ofcrop productivity, carbon sequestration, soil microbial activity, and economic returns, a study was carried out at Jawaharlal NehruKrishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Madhya Pradesh, Central India, during 2021-23. The experiment included eight treatment combinations:Gmelina arborea with pigeonpea (T1), cowpea (T2), and greengram (T3); G. arborea as a sole crop (T4); sole cropping of pigeonpea(T5), cowpea (T6), and greengram (T7); and a control of open field having no plant (T8). The G. arborea trees used in the study were6 years old, spaced at 8.0 × 2.5 m. Crops grown in control conditions generally outperformed those under agroforestry systemsin terms of yield. However, in terms of mean annual biomass production, the G. arborea + greengram combination produced thehighest annual biomass. G. arborea + pigeonpea led in annual carbon sequestration, recording 3.082 and 3.088 tonnes per hectare inthe first and second years, respectively, but remained at par with G. arborea + greengram. G. arborea + cowpea treatment supportedthe highest rhizobium counts (41.92 × 10⁷ cfu/g soil in year one and 43.81 × 10⁷ cfu/g soil in year two). Fungal populations werehighest under the G. arborea + pigeonpea combination, while the G. arborea + greengram treatment showed the greatest abundanceof bacteria and actinomycetes. The G. arborea + cowpea treatment delivered the highest economic returns in both years, thoughit was statistically on par with the G. arborea + greengram system. With regard to the multifunctional benefits point of view, G.arborea + greengram were a superior land use system over others tested. Overall, agroforestry systems generated significantlyhigher multifunctional benefits compared to sole cropping approaches.
Copyright (c) 2026 Subhasmita Parida, Nirakar Bhol, Rakesh Bajpai, Uttam Kumar Sahoo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Response of shaftal (Trifolium resupinatum L. var. majus Boiss.) to phosphorus fertilization: implications for forage yield and quality
This study evaluated the effects of different phosphorus (P) doses (0-30-45-60-75-90 kg P ha-1) on morpho-agronomic traits,yield, and forage quality of shaftal. The research was conducted in the Thrace region of southeastern Europe (Türkiye) from2019 to 2021 for two years. The plant height was varied between 101.17 to 114.54 cm, leaf length 21.44 to 25.45 cm, leaflet length3.97 to 4.48 cm, leaflet width 2.37 to 2.89 cm number of leaves per plant 9.23 to 10.19 pcs, stem diameter 6.89 to 7.93 mm, greenfodder yield 56.49 to 83.65 t ha-1, dry matter yield 7.30 to 10.72 t ha-1, crude protein 17.13 to 20.37%, crude fiber 24.23 to 27.74%,NDF 34.33 to 36.53%, ADF 21.92 to 24.54%, RFV 177.74 to 194.64%, Ca 24.12 to 29.10 g kg-1, Mg 2.45 to 2.71 g kg-1, P 2.62 to 2.88g kg-1, K 24.86 to 28.54 g kg-1, tetany ratio 0.89 to 0.97, β caroten 249.02 to 357.91 mg kg-1, α-tocopherol 116.00 to 125.49 µg kg-1,DDM 69.78 to 71.82%, DMI 3.28 to 3.50%, TDN 68.13 to 71.14%, NEl 0.70 to 0.74 Mcal lb-1, NEm 0.77 to 0.81 Mcal lb-1, NEg 0.44to 0.48 Mcal lb-1 at P levels, respectively. P application significantly affected plant growth characteristics, green fodder and drymatter yields, chemical composition, fiber fractions, mineral content, vitamin concentrations, digestibility indices, and net energyvalues. Increasing P doses generally enhanced biomass production, crude protein content, digestibility parameters, mineralcomposition, and antioxidant vitamin levels, while reducing structural fiber fractions. The most consistent improvements inboth yield and forage nutritive value were observed at an application rate of approximately 60 kg P ha-1, whereas higher ratesresulted in diminishing returns. These findings indicate that balanced P fertilization is critical for optimizing productivity andforage quality in the shaftal.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hazım Serkan Tenikecier https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Morphological characteristics and degradation vulnerability of hill side slope soils under natural forest and agroforestry in semi-arid Telangana, India
A study was conducted in the natural forest and agroforestry land uses in the semi-arid ecosystem in Telangana, India to understandthe morphological properties of soils in a profile and their vulnerability towards land degradation. A total of five pedons weremorphologically studied, four from natural forest and one from agroforestry from the hill side slopes landform of the study area.Soils from the agroforestry ecosystem possess dark reddish brown, sandy loam A horizons and dark reddish brown, sandy clayloam B horizons with dominant sub angular blocky soil structure. Soils of natural forest ecosystems had a dominant soil textureof sandy clay loam at the surface and sandy clay in the subsurface, indicating the process of clay illuviation. Land degradationvulnerability was assessed using the properties viz. thickness of the surface horizon, surface texture, surface structure, erosion,bulk density, pH and organic carbon, available P and K of the surface as indicators. It was found that P3 (0.89) was very high, P1(0.72), P2 (0.78), and P4 (0.78) were high, and P5 (0.69) was medium in its land degradation vulnerability status. The very highvulnerability of P3 could be attributed to the very severe erosion, lower pH of 5.35 and medium status of organic carbon (0.71),available P and K. The soil reaction, organic carbon content, texture, structure, and nutrient status could thus be considered asgood soil quality indicators to assess the land degradation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Karthika K S, Anil Kumar K.S., Srinivasan R, Chandrakala M https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Principal component and genetic diversity analysis for morpho-biochemical traits in cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.)
Precise selection of superior genotypes for yield and its attributing traits is of utmost importance for a successful breeding program, but the complex nature of yield makes this selection difficult. The present study was conducted at dry land research area, CCSHAU, Hisar, Haryana, India, during Kharif 2022 to measure the genetic diversity among the cluster bean genotypes and to select the diverse parents for recombination breeding. Data were recorded on 17 quantitative traits using 50 cluster bean genotypes. D2 analysis distributed all the genotypes into five clusters. Cluster IV had the maximum intra-cluster distance. The crossing among the genotypes of clusters I and III, III and IV, and I and IV would result in novel recombinants, as they showed high inter-cluster distance. In the PCA study, the first five principal components (PCs) had eigenvalues greater than one, and they cumulatively explained 83.29% of the total variation present in the original dataset. The first principal component (PC 1) explained 37.87%, while PC 2, PC 3, PC 4, and PC 5 explained 18.04, 12.90, 8.23, and 6.25% of the total variability, respectively. PC 1 has captured maximum variability for seed yield and its attributing traits, along with gum content. The genotypes, RGr 20-15, X 25, RGr 18-1, HG 884, RGr 20-7, HG 2-20, HG 19-4, HG 563, GD 567, and GG 1806, were the top-ranking genotypes upon PC analysis with high positive PC 1 scores.
Copyright (c) 2026 Monica Tundwal, Ravish Panchta, Satyawan Arya, Neeraj Kharor, Sonu Langaya, Dalvinder Pal Singh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Seed production of tropical range grasses in India: towards quality and sustainability
In tropical and sub-tropical countries, agriculture is predominantly crop-livestock-based mixed farming, influenced by climate change events. However, for various reasons, livestock productivity in these countries is considerably lower as compared to temperate countries. Regional and seasonal deficits in nutritious fodder availability are a significant constraint in sustainable and profitable livestock production. Globally, the primary impediment to enhancing fodder production and sustainable grassland management is the timely unavailability of quality seeds and planting materials, especially improved cultivars. Tropical countries encounter several issues in the range grass seed production, such as poor germination, seed dormancy, non-synchronous flowering, seed shattering, poor ovule-to-seed ratio, low seed yield, etc., due to extreme climates and lack of domestication of tropical forage species. Effective utilization of high-quality seeds or planting materials coupled with proper agronomic management practices can increase forage yield by 30 to 40%. However, comprehensive seed production information on tropical range grasses is still lacking among farmers and other stakeholders. This review not only underscores the constraints, principles, and opportunities for seed production in tropical range grasses but also systematically elaborates on various advanced management practices, such as suitable planting methods, optimal sowing times, water and nutrient management, cutting practices, and harvesting management to enhance quality seed production. This, in turn, will aid in utilizing existing and forest wastelands for sustainable seed production of tropical range grasses, consequently boosting the supply of green fodder and ecosystem services.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hanamant M. Halli , Subhash Chand, Sanjay Kumar , Vijay Kumar Yadav , Ajoy Kumar Roy, Nilamani Dikshit , D Vijay , Basavaraj P. S., Harisha C. B., Boraiah K. M., Sangram Chavan , Pankaj Kaushal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Exserohilum rostratum: the incitant of oat leaf blight in Himachal Pradesh, India
During the 2023-24 rabi season, severe leaf blight symptoms were observed on fodder oat (Avena sativa L.) cultivated in Himachal Pradesh, India, a major fodder-producing state in the north-western Himalayan region. Disease incidence varied from 40 to 60% across four surveyed fields of Amb (Una) under cool temperatures, high relative humidity and prolonged leaf wetness. Symptoms initially manifested as small, purple, oval to elongated lesions with grey centres that coalesced, causing extensive leaf blighting. The pathogen was isolated from infected leaf tissues and identified as Exserohilum rostratum based on cultural, morphological, and molecular characteristics. Pathogenicity was established through artificial inoculation of healthy oat plants, which reproduced typical symptoms within 7 days, followed by re-isolation of the fungus. This study presents the first report of leaf blight in fodderoat caused by E. rostratum in Himachal Pradesh, India.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tanvi Vashisth, Devinder Kumar Banyal; Shikha Sharma, Sonali Parwan; Anjali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0