COLLECTION OF PROPAGATION MATERIAL OF INDIGENOUS RANGELAND ... COLLECTION OF PROPAGATION MATERIAL OF INDIGENOUS RANGELAND FORAGE AND MEDICINAL PLANT SPECIES IN THREE REGIONS OF OMAN
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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.
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
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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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.
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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
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Table 2. Anthocyanin pigmentation and morphological marker characters established in Cenchrusciliaris L. (Accession No. MF 185).
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
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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
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-
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.
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
� 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
)ht
(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
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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.