Assessment of Mortality in <I>Acacia Nilotica</I> in Haryana and Punjab in Relation to Biotic Stresses

Abstract

Kikar (Acacia nilotica) is an important agro-forestry species found in plains of Northern India. From last few decades the decline of the species has been recorded and drying and dying of the trees is still going on. For the purpose of study, Punjab and Haryana, where wood of kikar (Acacia nilotica) is very useful were selected. Apart from the soil factors, average rainfall and global warming, impact of development activities and urbanization, like Road widening, expansion of cable network, blazing, lopping and injuries caused to the trees during operation are found deep major causes. Role of decay and root rotting fungi, which harbor the exposed and injured portion of the tree has also been recorded.