An Evaluation of Stocking and Regeneration Capacity of Naturally Growing Acacia Gerrardii (Benth) In Central Regions of Saudi Arabia

Shetta, N. D.^{1, 2}, Alshaharani T.S¹. Nasser, R. A.^{1, 2}

¹Plant Production Dept., Food and Agricultural Sciences College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. ²Department of Forestry and Wood Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.

DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.13005/bbra/2020

ABSTRACT: The present study was carried out in central region of Saudi Arabia. The objective of the study was to evaluate the diversity, stocking and regeneration capacity of the natural growing Acacia gerrardii (Benth) in 5 sites selected from three locations namely; Huraymila’, Dhurmah and Dawadmi. The sampling of Acacia species was conducted within circular sample plots. Inside each site, 3sample plots were selected to determine the regeneration capacity, tree stocking and productivity. The results indicated that the growth diversity and stand structure of naturally growing Acacia gerrardii in Riyadh region varied with location. Most of the trees in locations occurred as woodlots. Dawadmi recorded the maximum tree stocking and productivity. The regeneration capacity in Huraymila’ was higher whereas the least total seedling ha^-1 was record at Dawadmi location. Removing trees for various purposes reduced heavily the stocking density of the trees, regeneration capacity and the chlorophyll contents in locations. The stocking density and regeneration in locations were low cause of indiscriminate cutting of trees and intensive grazing. Tree heights were below the average as a result to low stocking density and increased natural spacing between trees. Acacia gerrardii woodlots in this area require immediate intervention and protection to attain sustainability.

KEYWORDS: Stocking; Regeneration capacity; Growth diversity; Sustainability

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