Biology and potential of Prosopis species in arid environments, with particular reference to P. cineraria

Journal Article · Sat Mar 01 00:00:00 EST 1980 · J. Arid Environ.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6843853

Leakey, R R.B.; Last, F T

Natural distributions of the 44 species of Prosopis (Leguminosae) reflect the occurrence of arid zones in N. and S. America, N. Africa, S.W. Asia and the Indian sub-continent. In colonizing these often alkaline environments they can provide man with firewood, timber, food, animal fodder, gums and possibly tannins, yet relatively little use has been made of them. Studies of their biology and genetic variation indicate exploitable potential for tree improvement as a multi-purpose crop plant, especially if allied to improved silvicultural methods. They could also contribute to revegetation and conservation programmes, tolerating many extreme environments. P. cineraria in particular, may be worthy of consideration for detailed study, genetic selection and more widespread use.

• Research Organization: Inst. of Terrestrial Ecology, Midlothian, Scotland
• OSTI ID: 6843853
• Journal Information: J. Arid Environ.; (United States), Vol. 3:1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

09 BIOMASS FUELS
29 ENERGY PLANNING
POLICY AND ECONOMY
60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES
TREES
ECOLOGY
USES
ARID LANDS
BIOMASS
CROPS
FUELS
LAND USE
LEGUMINOSAE
REVEGETATION
ENERGY SOURCES
PLANTS
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
140504* - Solar Energy Conversion- Biomass Production & Conversion- (-1989)
299003 - Energy Planning & Policy- Unconventional Sources & Power Generation- Other- (-1989)
553000 - Agriculture & Food Technology