Evaluation of interspecific hybrid clones of Casuarina for adaptability and growth in arid and semi-arid regions of North-West India

Aim: The present study aimed at introducing high yielding clones of commercially important short rotation tree species such as Casuarina junghuhniana under arid and semi-arid conditions of North India and investigating their adaptability, growth and productivity potential for identification of superior clones for cultivation. Methodology: Nine clones of Casuarina, four of Casuarina junghuhniana and five of inter-specific hybrid of C. equisetifolia x C. junghuhniana, were introduced from the Institute of Forest, Genetics and Tree Breeding, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu and were planted at two distinct agro-climatic conditions representing the arid and semiarid conditions of Punjab, India. Results: The clones were studied for morphological traits (quantitative, qualitative, and fruiting) and showed significant variation in terms of adaptability, growth and branching traits under both environmental conditions. The clones IFGTB CH 2, CH 5 and CJ 108 were found superior for growth, stem quality characters and adaptability for which the data were recorded at the age of 2 1/4 and 3 1/4 yrs. Interpretation: Findings of the current study will contribute in the adoption of selected clones in agroforestry situations. Further, field testing is required to estimate the yield potential of shortlisted clones and to broaden the genetic diversity of planting material through introduction of more number of clones.