Browsing by Author "Anoop, E V"

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Characterization of wood physical and anatomical featurs for the development of identification keys for twenty tree species of South India
(College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2023-03-18) Ashline Shaji; Anoop, E V
Wood has played a vital role in the history of human civilisation. Mankind have been using it as a building material, for making furniture, paper and fuelwood since time immemorial. The demand for wood continues to increase annually, even today. The rapidly expanding global population has created consumer demand for wood and wood products. This has led to unsustainable exploitation of forests globally, paving the way for illegal logging and resultant timber adulteration (UNODC, 2020). Illegal logging and global trade of such timber accounts for 51-152 billion U.S. dollars annually (INTERPOL, 2019). Accurate identification of timbers is therefore a need of the hour. Identifying the timber is also a necessity, even to determine its general end-use. In this backdrop, the present study was conducted to characterise the physical and anatomical features of 21 timber species and to develop a dichotomous Key and an IAWA (International Association of Wood Anatomists) Key for the accurate identification of the selected species. A survey was conducted, and wood samples were collected from different parts of Kerala. The procured samples were cut to the required dimensions (1x1x1 cm3 ). Gross features were recorded, and sections were prepared using a sliding microtome (Leica SM 2000R). Permanent slides were then prepared. The photomicrography of Transverse Sections (TS), Tangential Longitudinal Sections (TLS), and Radial Longitudinal Sections (RLS) were taken using a Catymage® image analyzer using a Catcam 500E series microscope camera, mounted on a Motic BA210 trinocular microscope. Physical properties like colour, odour, lustre, texture, basic density etc. and micro anatomical properties like vessel, ray and fibre morphology were studied. All the quantifiable parameters differed significantly between the species and characteristic features were identified. Wood specific gravity differed significantly. Highest specific gravity was observed in Hopea parviflora and Cocos nucifera, while the lowest specific gravity was observed in Ceiba pentandra. All the species studied (except Cocos nucifera) were categorised as diffuse porous. Small vessels were found in Aegle marmelos and comparatively larger vessels were observed in Ceiba pentandra. Vessels were solitary and in radial multiples of 2-3 in most of the species studied, except Casuarina equisetifolia which were exclusively solitary and in Alstonia scholaris they were in radial multiples of 4-8. Maximum vessel diameter was observed for Ceiba pentandra with 258.38 µm followed by Bombax ceiba with 232.11 µm and Acrocarpus fraxinifolius with 224.34 µm. The lowest vessel diameter was recorded in Aegle marmelos (93.82 µm) and Casuarina equisetifolia (99.11 µm). mm2 Vessel frequency was found to be highest in Aegle marmelos (37 per mm2 ) followed by Bridelia retusa (24 per mm2 ) and the lowest was recorded in Acacia nilotica, Albizia odoratissima, Hopea parviflora and Lagerstroemia lanceolata with a value of 3 per . Rays were observed to be variable, with a mixture of homocellular and heterocellular rays to exclusively homocellular rays. In Aegle marmelos, Albizia odoratissima and Cassia fistula, only procumbent rays were observed. Ray frequency was analysed in the present study and it was found that the highest ray frequency was found in Casuarina equisetifolia (15 per mm) Cassia fistula (13 per mm) and Neolamarkiana cadamba (13 per mm) and the lowest was recorded in Ceiba pentandra (4 per mm), followed by Bombax ceiba (5 per mm) and Melia dubia (5 per mm). Ray height was highest in Bombax ceiba (1.25 mm), followed by Bridelia retusa (1.50 mm) and the lowest was recorded in Cassia fistula (0.21 mm ) followed by Casuarina equisetifolia (0.22 mm). Paratracheal parenchyma is an advanced character and was observed in most of the species. Angular vessel outline was observed only in Alstonia scholaris. Utilizing all the physical and anatomical information obtained from the study, a dichotomous key and an IAWA key was prepared for the selected timbers species.
Dendroclimatic analysis of teak (Tectona grandis L. f.) from central India to evaluate the potential for climate reconstruction
(Academy of Climate Change Education and Research Vellanikkara, 2016) Reji Mariya Joy, K; Anoop, E V
Paleoclimatology is the study of climate prior to the instrumental record. Instrumental records are available for a period nearly 100-150 years, which is inadequate for explaining the climate variability and climate change in past millennial time scale. Paleoclimatic data helps in testing the hypothesis about the causes of climate change. When the past climate fluctuations are understood, the climate variations in the future could possibly be anticipated. The science of reconstruction past climate by using tree rings is known as Dendroclimatology. In the present dendroclimatic study, 96 teak core samples have been used from Allapalli (Ggadchiroli, 26 cores), Nagzira (Bhandra, 26 cores) of Maharashtra and Edugurapalli (Bhandrachalam, 18 cores), and Thatibanda (Visakapattanam, 26 cores) of Andhra Pradesh by IITM. Samples were precisely cross dated and ring width was measured using stereo microscope and measurement setup along with the software ‘TROPMET RINGS’, after proper mounting, sanding, polishing and skeleton plotting. COFECHA program was used for checking the quality of corssdating and measurement accuracy. Standardization of the tree ring series is an important aspect of dendroclimatology for removing the non-climate signals from tree ring series and to improve the climate signals. The computer program ARSTAN was used for this specific purpose. Common period statistics produced by ARSTAN show moderately high values of common variance and signal to noise ratio for each chronology, which suggests a high dendroclimatic potential of the chonologies. Climate of site is very important to understood tree-growth climate relationship. Monthly, seasonal and annual climatic conditions over the sampling sites were analyzed by calculating climatology of stations using the data collected from nearby IMD stations. CRU TS (time-series) 3.20 data (0.5-0.5 degree resolution) of monthly gridded temperature and rainfall over a period of 1901-2011 was also used along with IMD data for analyzing the growth climate relationship, since the data showed good correlation with station data. Masulipatnam and Hanamkonda climate is influenced by both Southwest and Northeast monsoon whereas Chandrapur and Nagpur climate is influenced overall warming for all stations. Seasonal rainfall does not have a common trend for all stations. The various response function analyses carried out over study sited in central India clearly indicate the crucial role played by the summer climate in tree growth. All the four cases, for which the relationships between tree growth and climate have been studied, show more or less similar behavior of the growth responses to summer climate (pre-monsoon). The significant negative response of summer temperature associated with the positive response of summer precipitation is mainly related to the availability of moisture which is a function of both temperature and precipitation. The study highlights the importance of moisture availability during beginning of tree growth and the potential of teak for the reconstruction of summer climate.
Dendroclimatological investigations on teak (Tecctona grandis L.F.) in Thrissur forest division of Kerala
(Department of tree physiology and breeding, College of forestry, Vellanikkara, 2011) Sreejith Babu; Anoop, E V
In a study entitled “Dendroclimatological investigations on teak (Tectona grandis L. f.) in Thrissur forest division of Kerala, conducted in the College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, the dendroclimatic potential of ring width and mean vessel area of teak was assessed at four study sites. The ring width index chronologies were positively correlated with the previous year south west monsoon, previous year north east monsoon, annual rainfall, whereas negatively correlated with summer rainfall, October-November temperature, previous June-September and current June- September temperature. The mean vessel area index (MVA) chronologies showed significant positive correlation with the previous year south west monsoon, north east monsoon, annual rainfall, previous October-November temperature, October-November temperature and annual temperature whereas a significant negative correlation was observed between mean vessel area index chronology and March-May temperature. In conclusion the tree ring chronologies of teak have good dendroclimatic potential in Thrissur and Chalakudy experiencing typical tropical climate.
Dendroclimatological investigations on teak (Tectona grandis L. f) from Nilambur, Kerala
(College of Climate Change and Environmental Science,Vellanikkara, 2021) Gouri, S; Anoop, E V
Dendroclimatological investigations on teak (Tectona grandis L. F.) in Nilambur (North) forest division of Kerala
(Department of wood science, College of forestry, Vellanikkara, 2016) Sreejith Babu; Anoop, E V
A study was conducted on teak (Tectona grandis L. f.) grown in plantations at Nilambur (North) forest division with the objectives of analyzing tree-ring chronologies to find out their dendroclimatic potential and the tree growth-climate relationship and also to find out whether any significant relationship exists between climate and mean vessel area (MVA) of teak and its prospect for climatic reconstruction of the study area. In order to achieve the above objectives, cross sectional discs were collected from sites located in Edakkode, Kanakuthu and Conolly’s plot. The average ring width and MVA of each year obtained from the different radii were used to cross date and construct the chronology using the TSAP Win software. A cubic smoothing spline was used for standardization of the tree ring data using the software ARSTAN. Bootstrap correlation and response function analyses were carried out with moving intervals to find out tree growth-climate relationship using DENDROCLIM was performed. Statistical parameters such as Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) and Expressed Population Signals (EPS) of all chronologies have desired levels and the sites had good dendroclimatic potential. Ring width and MVA chronologies of teak for the Nilambur region were developed. Rainfall in previous July, previous December and current October were correlated with ring width. Winter temperature (December-January) and southwest monsoon (June- September) were the seasonal climatic variables that mostly controlled ring width in the study sites. The monthly temperatures for January and previous June created major response in ring width. Mean vessel area responded to monthly rainfall for months previous June, previous September, previous November and current May. Seasonal climate which influenced vessel area were of southwest monsoon (June-September) temperature and rainfall and northeast monsoon (October-November) rainfall. Mean vessel area responded to monthly temperatures of previous August, current May and December. Using transfer functions climatic data for months and seasons with highest response and the period which is not available (1870-1900) from the instrumental record were reconstructed from tree ring data.
Destructive and non-destructive evaluation of wood properties in selected timbers of Kerala
(Department of Wood Science, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2012) Dhanya, P; Anoop, E V
A study entitled “Destructive and non-destructive evaluation of selected timbers of Kerala” was conducted in the College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur during the period 2010-2012. The objective of the study was to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of wood in timber species such as: teak (Tectona grandis L.f.), mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King), anjily (Artocarpus hirsutus Lamk.), jack (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk.), acacia (Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Benth.), rubber (Hevea braziliensis (H.B.K.) M. A.) and pyinkado (Xylia dolabriformis Benth.) using destructive and non-destructive methods. The study also aimed at evaluating the suitability of non-destructive techniques (NDT) and semi-destructive techniques (SDT) as predictors of timber properties under field conditions. Pilodyn 6J ((FUJI TECK, Tokyo, Japan) and treesonic microsecond timer (Fakkopp, Hungary) were the two non destructive equipments used in this study. In the present study, logs of the above species were collected from forest depots and retail outlets in Thrissur. Penetration depth of each species was found out using pilodyn and dynamic modulus of elasticity (MOE) was found out using the treesonic timer. Discs were taken for analysing specific gravity and the logs were subjected to various mechanical tests. Significant variation in specific gravity, mechanical properties, stress wave velocity and penetration depth were noticed between species. Significant negative correlation (1 per cent level) was noticed between specific gravity and pilodyn penetration depth in each of the species. Also, penetration depth was negatively related to modulus of rupture, dynamic MOE, modulus of rupture (MOR), radial hardness and fibre stress at limit of proportionality. Significant positive correlation was noticed between dynamic modulus of elasticity and all the parameters obtained from static bending tests especially static modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture. It was also noticed that dynamic MOE showed significant correlation (5 per cent level) with radial and tangential hardness. Significant positive correlation was found between stress wave velocity and all the parameters obtained from static bending test, and tensile strength at maximum load. When regression was done between pilodyn penetration depth and specific gravity in each of the species, it was noticed that a linear relationship existed between them. A linear relationship was found to exist between dynamic MOE and static MOE among the species. It can be concluded from the study that both pilodyn and treesonic timer can be used as predictors of timber properties under field conditions.
Development of anatomical key for the identification of selected timbers of Kerala
(Department of Forest Products and Utiliztion, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2020) Nimmi Sathish; Anoop, E V
Deforestation poses a massive threat to global biodiversity with illegal logging and the associated trade in illegally sourced wood products. This is a significant contributor to the continuation of unsustainable deforestation rates. Reputed timber traders are also struggling to police their own supply chains and comply with the growing requirement for due diligence with respect to timber ongin and legality. A range of scientific methods have been developed independently with the potential to provide the required identification information. Wood anatomy is considered as a hi^y specialised science discipline which is used in combination with various technologies in forensic timber identification. Wood anatomical features are generally considered not prone to changes under normal circumstances and therefore it forms the basis of wood identification. Analysis can be undertaken at both the macroscopic and microscopic scale, but microscopic examination is usually required to achieve a diagnostic identification. Different features of interest in this scenario include cell size, arrangements of different elements, cell proportion and most importantly, specific gravity. There are thousands of species of trees fi:om which timber can be obtained, each with different rates of growth, structural properties and degrees of durability. Some timbers are highly decorative, some are very strong, some have good resistance to rot - in fact almost every species of wood has features that can be good in some uses, but not so good in others. Therefore, knowing what type of wood you have in fi-ont of you can be extremely important, either because you may have paid a lot of money for something you didn't actually get, or maybe because the wood you've got is unsuitable for the job you have in mind for it. Timber identification is a skill that must be gained with practice and with a bit of extra help from a skilled wood scientist. The lAWA (International Association of Wood Anatomists) List of Microscopic Features for Hardwood Identification is an important standardized list of characters and terminology that can be used in descriptive wood anatomical studies and identification obtained through comparison to reference materials.. The commonly used keys for wood identification are the dichotomous key, perforated card key and the computer aided identification key. Dichotomous keys are the most simple and easy to use keys. These types of keys have been used for over centuries in biological identification. The multiple entry perforated card type of key was introduced by the Forest Products Research Laboratory in 1936, when a key for the identification of hardwoods based on microscopic features was conducted. Hence, the preparation of anatomical key is very important in the field of wood industries for the identification of the suitable material or the tree. Anatomical keys of different timbers assists in a large way do away with the confusion in the identification of timbers. The anatomical keys can also support the molecular studies like DNA bar coding, molecular markers etc. Wood anatomical analysis is the most frequently used method for taxonomic identification, both on the front-line for screening purposes, and in the laboratory for diagnostic identification. In this study, 20 species of trees were considered in the preparation of anatomical keys for identification. The species of trees used for the study are Acacia auriculiformis, A. Cunn. Ex Benth. , Acacia mangium Willd.. , Albizia lebbeck (L) Benth. , Albizzia odoratissima (L.f) Benth. , Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk. Artocarpus hirsutus Lamk. , Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. , Dalbergia nigra Fr All Hevea braziliensis (H. B. K.) M.A., Hopea parviflora. Bedd., Intsia bijuga (Colebr.) , Ocotea rodiaei (Schomb) Mez. , Peltogyne paniculata Benth. , Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb., Pterocarpus dalbergioides Roxb. ex DC., Santalum album Linn Swietenia macrophylla king. , Tectona grandis Linn. , Xylia dolabriformis Benth Xylia xylocarpa (Roxb.) Taub.
Development of DNA barcodes for the identification of selected timber species used in Kerala
(Department of Forest Products and Utilization, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2023-03-09) Preeti; Anoop, E V
Wood is one of the versatile and renewable natural resources, used extensively for diverse purposes. Its end uses are being improvised through technological advancements. An ever-increasing population has resulted in higher demand for this once plentiful resource. The conservation-oriented policy norms also augmented the widening gap between demand-supply in the timber markets which, in spite of this potential wealth, has led us to import timber from abroad. The remaining demand is met through plantation-grown timber including indigenous, and exotic species. Timber legality and assurance system demands a scientific method which guarantees the right timber for the right use. Scientific methods of wood identification involve conventional wood anatomy where the unique combination of wood elements (vessels, ray parenchyma, axial parenchyma etc.) derived from its natural growth in the living tree is used. This method is considered as modest, precise and feasible for different commercial timber species. However, distinguishing individuals within a species, which shows disparities due to local adaptation requires DNA profiling. DNA is barcoded to identify a species based on specific gene regions which are conserved and unique in every species. DNA barcoding has a tremendous scope in forestry enterprises including verifying forest trees and wild seedlings, population diversity studies, tracking adulterant species of timber as well as medicinal plants, and counteracting illegal logging of both wood and wood products. In this context, the present study titled “Development of DNA barcodes for the identification of selected timber species used in Kerala” aims at the development of a barcode database for the identification of the selected timber species integrated with the physical and anatomical properties of wood. The study was carried out during the period 2020-22 in the Department of Forest Products and Utilization, College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara and the Forest Genetics and Biotechnology division of Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), Peechi. The wood samples include imported woods viz., Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Benth (Acacia), Acrocarpus fraxinifolius Wight & Arn. (Acrocarpa), Albizia odoratissima (L.f.) Benth. (Ceylon rosewood), Intsia bujiga (Colebr.) Kuntze (Merbau), Martiodendron parviflorum (Amshoff) R. C. Koeppen (WPL- Witte Pinto Locus), Mesua ferrea L. (Mesua), Pterocarpus dalbergoides DC. (Andaman padauk), Ocotea rodiaei (R.H.Schomb) Mez (Greenheart), Salix babylonica L. (Weeping willow) and Salix tetrasperma (Indian Willow) were collected from timber sawmills in the Thrissur district and other timber dealers across Kerala. The general features of wood like colour, odour, weight and texture, and physical property like specific gravity were considered for the primary inspection of wood samples. Anatomical features were used to confirm the identity of the species along with the available wood identification databases like the “Inside wood” database. DNA barcodes were developed using three standard barcode loci viz., rbcL (ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase larger subunit), matK (maturase K) coding gene regions as well as non-coding region psbA-trnH from chloroplast region recommended by COBOL Plant Working Group (2009). Obtained sequences were edited, aligned and checked for similarity using our reference library as well as the Nucleotide BLAST tool in NCBI. The size of each sequence, homology per cent, frequency of each nucleotide, and conserved and variable sites for each gene region in all the species were recorded. For all the species under study, the maximum value for specific gravity was observed in Mesua ferrea whereas Salix spp. showed minimum value for specific gravity. The concentration of extracted DNA from all the leaf and wood samples was recorded and 100 per cent success rate was observed for DNA extraction from the processed wood samples using the kit method. Highly processed wood samples yielded a very less amount of amplifiable DNA but some in-house modifications which help in leaching phenolic compounds gave a high yield of intact DNA. Out of three gene regions considered for the study, rbcL amplified all 10 out of 10 species whereas matK and psbA-trnH amplified for 8 and 7 species respectively. The study concluded that the combination of wood elements in terms of their size and distribution pattern is essential to identify wood using anatomical tools. An integrated approach involving wood anatomy and DNA barcoding can identify any unknown wood specimen if the DNA barcode reference library is in place. The present study also recommends the creation of a DNA barcode reference library which can add more precision to the wood identification process, so as to counter the illegal trade and adulteration in the timber trade.
Development of experimental kiln-drying schedules for different types of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) palm wood flooring
(Department of Forest Products and Utiliztion, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2021) Shibu, C; Anoop, E V
In India, there is a significant gap existing between supply and demand for wood and wood products. Several factors influence wood consumption. For example, the construction sector is witnessing a shift to eco-friendly furnishings. Indeed, the eco-friendly amenity of wooden flooring in hotels and houses has contributed to an upswing in commercial wood consumption. In the current scenario, effective utilisation of existing lesser-known species such as Cocos nucifera L. (Coconut palm tree) is gaining prominence. The lesser known wood species will help to meet the domestic demand and may help to bridge the gap between supply and demand of timber. Seasoning of wood is a crucial step for producing defect-free timber for the ease of doing timber work and potential use of available timber. The purpose of this research is to develop experimental kiln-drying schedules for Cocos nucifera L. (Coconut palm tree) for various flooring methods (Tongue & Groove flooring (T&G flooring), Parquetry flooring, and Engineered overlay flooring). The substructure, base kiln-drying schedules were developed based on the Terazawa method (1965), and optimised using Rasialy (1993) classification. The critical conditions of equalizing treatment and conditioning treatment were established in relation to the product's desirable moisture content, which is 12% for general wood flooring products in climatic zone IV (Kerala). High-density wood samples with thicknesses of 25 mm and 50 mm (20 cm x 10 cm in length and width) were used to investigate drying defects under drastic conditions, and schedules for both thicknesses were developed. Similarly, schedules were developed using medium-density wood samples of 25 mm and 50 mm. The moisture content of the experimental samples (2 cm x 2 cm in length and width) was determined using the oven-dry method, and the basic density was determined based on the water displacement method. 83 The experimental kiln drying schedule recommended for 50 mm thick high-density coconut palm wood Tongue and Groove flooring and Parquetry flooring was MT4-B1 (schedule code). Initial Dry Bulb Temperature 39°C (Relative humidity 89%), Initial Wet Bulb Depression 2°C, and Final Dry bulb Temperature 57°C were the critical conditions for MT4-B1. The highdensity coconut palm wood (25 mm thick) is also suitable for Tongue & Groove flooring and Parquetry flooring and the schedule was MT6-B1 with Initial Dry Bulb Temperature 45°C (Relative humidity 90%), Initial Wet Bulb Depression 2°C, and Final Dry Bulb Temperature 62°C. The recommended experimental kiln drying schedule for medium-density coconut palm wood of 50 mm thickness was MT6-D2 as follows: Initial Dry bulb Temperature 42°C (Relative humidity 87%), Initial Wet Bulb Depression 2°C, and Final Dry bulb Temperature 57°C. The schedule for 25 mm thickness medium-density coconut palm wood was MT6-E1, which includes an Initial Dry bulb Temperature of 42°C (Relative humidity 87%), Initial Wet Bulb Depression of 2°C and a Final Dry bulb Temperature of 45°C. The medium-density coconut palm wood only can be used for overlay flooring because of its low strength. All the schedules are made, considering the desired moisture content (12%) for general flooring purposes under the prevailing conditions of Kerala (Relative humidity > 67%) as prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Ecoanatomical characterisation and development of anatomical key of selected mangrove species of west coast of India
(Department of Wood Science, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2017) Anju S Vijayan; Anoop, E V
The present investigation focused on the ecoanatomical characterisation of the wood of 17 selected true mangroves collected from 10 locations in the Western Coast of India. A total of 221 characters listed in the IAWA (International Association of Wood Anatomists) list of card key features were studied for each species as there is a felt need for creating databases of mangrove wood anatomy which allows to quantify the relative amount of intra- and interspecific variation, as well as variation within and between the mangrove genera. Mangrove wood from West Coast of India is characterised by diffuse-porosity, scalariform to opposite vessel wall pitting, scalariform perforations with few bars or large number of bars. Most mangrove family members were found to have simple perforations, septate or non septate fibres with distinctly to minutely bordered pits, bordered, half bordered to simple pits, paratracheal parenchyma, apotracheal and banded parenchyma. Heterocellular to homocellular rays with mostly procumbant cells with one or several marginal row of square/upright cells was also observed in these mangrove genera. Short numerous vessels with small dimension and vessel grouping were also common. The most advanced characters like vestured pit, helical thickening, crystals and vessel occlusions were present in majority of the samples. A perforated card key based on the IAWA list of microscopic card features for mangrove identification was also prepared. The development of an IAWA based anatomical key will be helpful for the identification of mangrove species based on wood anatomy. The ecoanatomical characters such as vessel diameter, vessel frequency, vessel grouping, type of vessel plate, lateral wall pitting, type of pits of true mangrove species were studied and compared with data from their nearest upland relative. The ecoanatomical features of wood of mangrove species are correlated with xeromorphic nature of their upland relatives. Because of the highly variable and stressful environmental condition, the mangroves developed certain strategies and adaptations during their evolution. These special morphological and physiological adaptations made it for the mangrove species to survive in these conditions in contrast to their upland relatives. A safe hydraulic architecture is only one of the alternative ways for a plant to be able to survive in water stress situations. The modification of xylem hydrological structure of mangrove wood helps to balance safety versus efficiency of water transport system. These modifications of wood structure due to ecological conditions are the driving force to evolution of wood anatomy. Thus the evolution of mangrove genera has been shown to be likely driven by environmental condition and not by phylogeny. The general pattern of wood anatomy of mangrove genera of different families indicates convergent evolution. These trends of wood anatomy in mangrove species provide new examples of phenotypic plasticity in angiosperms. To ensure safety, certain primitive structures such as bordered pits, scalariform vessel plate, scalariform, transitional, opposite lateral wall pitting and vessel bars still persist in the true mangrove genera of the present investigation. Thus the development of wood anatomical characters in mangrove genera were an example of heterobatmy. The presence of mostly primitive wood character states suggest an unbroken occupancy of stressful habitat by its ancestral genera. Mangrove occurs in different families in which the gamut of wood specialization ranges from advanced to highly advanced features. Rhizophoraceae members were found to be the most primitive ones with less specialization whereas the other mangrove species were found to have highly advanced wood anatomical characters.
Effect of growth rate on wood quality of teak (Tectona grandis Linn.f.) grown under differing site quality conditions
(Department of wood science, College of forestry, Vellanikkara, 2013) Anish, M C; Anoop, E V
Evaluation of wood quality of selected tropical pines raised in the high ranges of kerala, for pulp and paper making
(Department of Tree Physiology and Breeding,College of forestry,Vellanikkara, 2010) Ajayghosh, V; Anoop, E V
A study entitled “Evaluation of wood quality of selected tropical pines raised in the high ranges of Kerala, for pulp and paper making” was conducted in the College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur during the period 2008-2010. The objective of the study was to evaluate the wood quality of Pinus caribaea Morelet, Pinus patula Schl. et Cham. and Pinus oocarpa Schiede grown in research trials of the Kerala forest department in the high ranges of Idukki district of Kerala. Increment core wood samples were collected at breast height from trees, selected at random, from each plot representing each species belonging to different age levels. These samples were then subjected to intensive investigations to find out radial variation (pith, middle and periphery), species variation and influence of age on different wood physical, anatomical and chemical properties. The study revealed that many of the characters studied were influenced by species and age interaction. Radial variation was also found to have significant difference within the species for characters studied. As a whole, under the present climatic condition P.caribaea was found to perform better with wood properties within the accepted range suitable for pulping and paper making. On the other hand, P. patula and P. oocarpa were also found to be promising species for pulping and papermaking with better derived fiber ratios. However, P. oocarpa had specific gravity value slightly more than that is recommended for pulp and paper making. Studies on chemical composition revealed that P. ooccarpa had better performance with higher cellulose and lower lignin content. So what needs to be determined is the relationship, if any, between wood and tracheid properties of these species and the products which can be manufactured from this renewable resource. For this, more extensive study is needed for which the results of this study could be used as a base line data for future tree improvement aspects of these species with reference to wood quality and to bring out their potential utility for future afforestation programmes and timber utility.
Feasibility of forest certification in Marayoor sandal division, Kerala
(Department of Wood Science, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2016) Toji Antony; Anoop, E V
The study titled “Feasibility of forest certification in Marayoor Sandal Division, Kerala” was carried out during 2015-2016. The main objectives were to find out the potential of implementing forest certification in Marayoor Sandal Division of Kerala by an assessment of the socio-economic status of the stakeholders. It was also intended to assess the management aspects of the Division, particularly to see whether they comply with the sustainable forest management principles and criteria of forest stewardship council (FSC). A pre-tested questionnaire was used to gather information on socio-economic characteristics of the stakeholders’ and for assessing the feasibility of forest certification. A total of 190 respondents from six stakeholders namely, forest dwellers, local community, casual labourers, forest officials, major bidders of Marayoor sandal and scientific community, were surveyed. The study revealed that, the sandal reserve acts as a major source of income to forest dwellers and casual labourers, which shows that, Marayoor Sandal Division plays a key role for meeting their livelihood. The sandal reserve provides a lot of benefits to stakeholders such as forest dwellers and local community. The major threats prevailed in the division were weed growth and grazing. There was no significant association between the socio-demographic variables and the perception of forest dwellerson benefits and threats,whereas for local community the relation showed almost the same pattern except for educational status and threat. The job-related risk was generally less in the sandal division from the perspectives of forest officials and casual labourers. The risk related to night-duty significantly affected the physical and mental capacity of forest officials, while the lack of safe guard measures was reported as a problem by casual labourers. Similarly, there was no significant difference in the job satisfaction with respect to the number of years of work experience. The management activities were satisfactory and the division complied with the government orders, guidelines, forest laws and policies. The strict adherence to the working plan prescriptions helped in the maintenance of the ecology of the division. The correlation between job satisfaction with implementation of management practices and ecological aspects was found to be negatively significant. This indicates that, when the implementation of rigid management practices in Marayoor Sandal Division is necessary on one hand, from the point of job satisfaction of the officials this is highly taxing given shortage of staff. Also, job dissatisfaction was because of the extra burden put on the under staffed workforce destined to ensure quality work. An analysis of the awareness level of a diverse network of experts comprising scientists, academicians, technical experts showed that, they were aware of certification and its importance. Also, the Marayoor Sandal Division was the only legal source of sandal to most of the ayurvedic industries, cosmetic industries and the Hindu temples in the state mainly managed by the Devaswom Boards. The study points to the feasibility of Forest Certification of Marayoor Sandal Division which can help in improving the overall management of the forest division. For this, region-specific P&C pertinent to Marayoor division needs to be formulated. For the implementation of forest certification in India, the National Working Plan Code (2014) should be amended with a view to enhance the practice of forest certification. For ensuring the quality of sustainable forest management particularly that of plantation management, the hard work of staff is needed to be recognised through award of cash incentives.
Genetic variation in wood basic density and moe and their relationship with growth traits in teak (TECTONA GRANDIS L.F.) grown in seed orchards of Kerala
(Department of Wood Science, College of Foresty, Vellanikkara, 2016) Jiljith, K P; Anoop, E V
A study on the variation in wood basic density and dynamic modulus of elasticity of teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) trees grown in tree improvement trials at various locations in Kerala using destructive and nondestructive testing (NDT) methods was conducted in the College of Forestry, KAU, Vellanikkara, Thrissur during the period 2012-2015. The investigation focused on the variation in physical and mechanical wood properties of teak, and to understand their relationship with growth traits and evaluating the suitability of NDT methods as predictors of timber properties under field conditions. Pilodyn (6J) and Treesonic Microsecond Timer (FAKOPP) were the two NDT equipments used in the study. Teak logs collected from a forest plantation (Elival, Palakkad) were destructively analysed following nondestructive testing with the above equipments. Discs and logs were analysed for within tree variation in Pilodyn pin penetration depth (PPD) and were further subjected to various mechanical tests using UTM as well. Significant variation in mechanical properties, and Stress Wave Velocity (SWV) was observed between the trees sampled. Most of the mechanical properties assessed destructively were found to be highly correlated with SWV. PPD in the periphery of the trees was related to the same in the middle portion of the trees. Pilodyn readings also correlated well with the actual wood basic density analysed destructively. In general, both the NDT instruments were found to be useful in estimation of the respective properties using regression analysis. In standing trees of a CSO (Walayar, Palakkad), an SPA (Nilambur) and two clonal trials (Chettikkulam and Vellikulangara, Thrissur) non-destructive evaluation was repeated. The study revealed high genetic divergence in the wood traits and indicated greater scope for application in tree improvement trials. Growth traits didn’t show any consistency or trend with the differing age of the plantations, nor any convincing relationship with the wood traits. Clusters were also identified for the clones at Walayar and Chettikkulam based on which selection for further breeding programmes can be undertaken
Geographical Indications status for Nilambur Teak (Tectona grandis L.f.)
(Department of Wood Science, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2017) Swathy M Haridas; Anoop, E V
A study on the “Geographical Indications status for Nilambur teak (Tectona grandis L.f)” was carried out in teak plantations of Nilambur and in Central Kerala (Thrissur, Palakkad and Ernakulam) during 2014-2016. The investigation focused on analyzing the potential of securing Geographical indications status for Nilambur teak by exploring the historical importance of Nilambur teak with the help of PRA tool timeline, comparing its wood quality with other National and International provenances and analysing the soil properties and climatic factors that are responsible for the uniqueness of Nilambur teak and to assess the popularity of Nilambur teak among the timber traders. Wood properties of three best teak growing plantations in Nilambur viz., Aryavallikkavu, Elencheri and Kanakuthu were analysed. Growth parameters such as girth at breast height (GBH) and height were taken from the selected trees; also non destructive testing methods (NDT) using Pilodyn (6J) and Tree Sonic Timer (FAKOPP) were used to estimate wood physical and mechanical properties. Heartwood percentage and colour were estimated in the teak discs collected from the selected plantations. No significant variation was found in Pilodyn penetration depth (PPD), Stress wave velocity (SWV), dynamic modulus of elasticity, heartwood percentage and GBH between the three plantations of Nilambur region. Heartwood colour determining components (hue, value and chroma) did not show any significant variation between the sites. In general, there was not much variation in physical and mechanical properties of teak grown in the various sites of Nilambur region. For analyzing soil properties, two soil pits of 1 m * 1 m* 1 m were dug from each of these plantations. Soil samples were collected from 0-20, 21-40, 41-60, 61-80 and 81-100 cm depths. The soil texture was sandy loam in all the sites and at different depths of soils in the selected teak plantations. Soil pH ranged from 6.05 to 4.79 from top to bottom layer indicating moderate acidity which measured with soil depth in teak plantations. The bulk density values were generally higher in the deeper layers of the soil. The mean bulk density values were in the range 1.0 to 1.92 g/cm3. Soil N, P, K content was lower in all the three sites compared to natural forests. Organic carbon content varied from 1.83 to 0.25 per cent with depth. Popularity and reputation of Nilambur teak among the traders studied through a questionnaire survey in sawmills of Thrissur, Palakkad and Ernakulam revealed that Nilambur teak has a high reputation among sawmill owners. Among teak woods available in the timber market of Central Kerala, Nilambur teak fetches high market prices per cubic feet. It is concluded that Nilambur teak has good potential for securing Geographical Indications status owing to its historical importance, good reputation, excellent colour, higher heartwood percentage and better strength properties.
Integration of DNA barcoding and wood anatomy for the identification of selected timbers
(Department of Forest Products and Utilization, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2020) Azhar Ali, A; Anoop, E V
In the field of wood marketing, the accurate identification of species has greater importance. Traditional methods of wood identification are based on physical characters and anatomical features of the wood species concerned. But they have some major limitations which could be overcome by the integration of DNA barcoding with traditional wood taxonomy methods. This study was conducted to confirm the authenticity of certain wood samples based on their physical and anatomical characters and to create a DNA Barcode database of seven selected timber species that are regularly traded in Kerala. The wood samples of seven tree species viz., Indian Sal (Shorea robusta Gaertn), Mangium (Acacia mangium Willd), Indian sandalwood (Santalum album Linn), Western red cedar (Thuja plicata Donn), Red sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus L.F), Mulluvenga (Bridelia retusa Spreng) and Malabar neem (Melia dubia Cav) were collected from sawmills and timber traders across Kerala and their anatomical and physical properties were studied in detail. The identity of samples was confirmed using computer-aided wood identification software in addition to the use of dichotomous keys. The wood samples were then used for DNA isolation, amplification and sequencing. The detailed study on general features such as colour and odour, physical properties like moisture content and specific gravity and micro-anatomical properties such as the number and distribution of vessels and rays was appropriate to confirm the identity of species as the properties were highly comparable with the existing databases. In further procedures, the DNeasy Plant Mini Kit (Qiagen) with some in house modifications could yield the maximum quantity of DNA for the studied wood species in the current study. Also the samples which are soaked in water yielded maximum amount of DNA even if it was treated with wood chemicals during transits for longevity. PCR amplifications were carried out using COBOL Plant Working Group (2009) recommended universal primers for rbcL, matK, and trnH-psbA, from which the matK region showed reasonable amplification.
Morphological and anatomical properties of teak seedlings as influenced by nursery techniques
(Department of Tree Physiology and Breeding, College of Forestry,Vellanikkara, 2004) Girija Pushpom, R P; Anoop, E V
An experiment was carried out at College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara with the objective to evaluate the best nutrient levels and sowing treatments required for the production of good quality stumps based on anatomical properties of the seedlings with particular reference to wood formation due to cambial activity. The different nutrient and sowing methods were randomly allocated following completely randomized design. From the experiment, it was found that the best nutrient and sowing method combinations were N2S3 (cowdung 0.4 kg/rrr' and neem cake 0.2 kg/rn ' with spacing of 12 cm x 12 cm between seeds). In terms of biometric characters and biomass characteristics of seedlings it was also found that in quick growing seedlings, vessel diameter was large and vessel frequency was less. Collar girth was positively related with ring width and negative related with vessel frequency. Comparing the performance of nursery raised seedlings with root trainer raised seedlings it was found that the growth characteristics as well as the anatomical properties were inferior for root trainer raised seedlings. In the present study it was found that the best quality teak stumps could be produced by intensive cultural practices. Intensive management of nursery seedlings could produce VlgOurOUS seedlings and thereby it could produce good quality stumps in less time. Results of the present study showed that traditional system of production of teak stumps were efficient By imposing superior nutrient and sowing methods good quality, vigorous stumps can be produced to meet the immediate plantation requirements within a short period.
Nutritional deficiency symptoms of ailanthus (ailanthuis triphyra (dennst.) alston)
(College of Forestry,Vellanikkara, 1993) Anoop, E V; Gopikumar, K
Sand culture experiments were carried out under controlled conditions inside a glasshouse attached to College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University main campus, Vellanikkara, during the period 1991-93 for inducing deficiency symptoms of various nutrient elements in the seedlings of Ailanthus (Ailanthus triphysa (Dennst.) Alston). The effects of major nutrients viz., N, P, K Mg and S on the growth, chlorophyll content and nutrient concentration of seedlings in the nursery were also studied. The results were also confirmed by recovery studies by supplying the seedlings showing the symptoms of deficiency of various elements with complete nutrient solution. For the study, two months old seedlings of uniform growth were planted in containers filled with pure quartz sand and supplied with Hoagland No.2 (1948) nutrient solution. The treatment solution was prepared by eliminating the desired nutrient from the complete Hoagland nutrient solution. The characteristic deficiency symptoms produced by seedlings due to the deficiency of various nutrient elements include leaf discolouration, necrosis, scorching, defoliation and growth stunting. The seedlings showing visual deficiency symptoms were also photographed. Seedlings that received complete nutrient solution were healthy with dark green foliage. Vegetative growth of the seedlings was also found to be affected due to the nutrient stress. All the fractions of chlorophyll i.e., chlorophyll – A, chlorophyll – B and total chlorophyll of the treatment seedlings declined during the study period compared to control. Visual deficiency symptoms of the nutrient elements also coincided with a corresponding reduction in foliar levels of the concerned element. There was remarkable improvement in the growth and recovery of visual symptoms when the deficient element concerned was again supplied to the seedlings through complete nutrient solution.
Screening of Ailanthus triphysa (Dennst.) alston. for preferred match wood qualities
(Department of Wood Science, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2017) Bill Nelson Paul; Anoop, E V
Ailanthus triphysa, a member of the family Simarubaceae is an important tree with regard to match manufacture. Twenty Candidate plus trees (CPTs) were selected from 10 panchayats across two districts (Thrissur and Palakkad) in Kerala to study the variation in wood properties and the growth parameters of their half-sib progenies during 2013-2017. Core samples were collected to analyse the anatomical properties and fibre indices between the CPTs, which was later found to vary significantly at one percent level. Morphological and growth parameters were observed in the half-sib progenies of the selected trees both in nursery and field condition for 150 days each. The morphological parameters like height, collar diameter, root length, leaf area, number of leaves etc. were found to vary significantly at nursery but not throughout the study period. Relative Growth Rate, Absolute Growth Rate and Net Assimilation Rate did not show significant variation among the seed sources. Field performance of the progenies was evaluated at Aaramkal, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala in RBD. Height and collar diameter varied significantly initially but the differences were not significant for collar diameter from 90 days after planting. However, survival percentage did not show any significant difference between the progenies. FCV AT 1 showed the maximum height growth at 150 days after planting. A questionnaire survey was conducted to access farmers’ perception towards growing raw materials for match manufacture. The respondents had an overall positive approach toward tree farming. The majority of the respondents were confident that scientific guidance will help them in increasing the yield.
Screening of jack trees (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) for quality timber production
(Department of Forest Products and Utilization, College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2019) Jobin Kuriakose; Anoop, E V
Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam, belonging to the family Moraceae and popularly known as jackfruit tree, is one of the important timber species commonly found in the homegardens of Kerala. The main objective of the present study was to identify plus trees of Artocarpus heterophyllus from Thrissur and Palakkad districts and to evaluate their seedling growth performance for quality timber production. Forty plus trees, twenty each of varikka and koozha variety were selected from both districts. Seedling biometric observations like stem height, collar diameter, leaf area, fresh weights and dry weights of stem, leaves and root showed significant differences throughout the study period, i e from 30 DAP (Days After Planting) to 150 DAP. At 150 DAP, seedling height ranged from 123.10 cm (FCV AH 22) to 68.35 cm (FCV AH 1) and collar diameter ranged from 14.39 mm (FCV AH 8) to 7.18 mm (FCV AH 7). At 150 DAP, FCV AH 4, FCV AH 22 and FCV AH 15 had the highest value for both fresh weight (33.88 g, 25.22 g and 25.25 g) and dry weight (16.41 g, 8.26 g and 8.54 g) of stem, leaf and root respectively. Other parameters like taproot length, number of leaves, Leaf Area Ratio, Specific Leaf Area, Absolute Growth Rate, Relative Growth Rate and Net Assimilation Rate were also found to be significant but not throughout the study period. The highest taproot length was noticed in FCV AH 2 (48.85 cm) and the least taproot length was in FCV AH 14 (30.45 cm) at 150 DAP. To establish a field trial plot, seedlings were out planted one year after nursery growth near the International Hostel at KAU, Vellanikkara. Field performance of the progenies were evaluated at 30 DAP. Seedling height and collar diameter were found to be significantly different among various seed sources. The average seedling height was 117.30 cm with values ranging from 143.94 cm to 96.35 cm and FCV AH 22 being the tallest. The mean collar diameter was 12.27 mm with FCV AH 29 having the highest (14.67 mm) value. Hierarchical cluster analysis based on the morphological and biometric characters was carried out and 40 plus tree sources were grouped into twenty-one clusters. Based on the biometric observations for 150 DAP and cluster analysis, it was found that Cluster 2 (FCV AH 2), Cluster 18 (FCV AH 8), Cluster 12 (FCV AH 9), Cluster 11 (FCV AH 15), Cluster 10 (FCV AH 21), Cluster 21 (FCV AH 22), and Cluster 15 (FCV AH 23) possess superior quality. Anatomical studies of young (six month old) Artocarpus heterophyllus seedlings from different seed sources and core samples of mature trees from a ‘Jack Gene Sanctuary’ of the Agricultural Research Station (ARS), KAU at Mannuthy revealed significant differences in various parameters. Vessel area, ray height, ray width, fibre length and fibre wall thickness were found to be significantly different in six month old seedlings, whereas samples from mature trees showed significant difference in vessel diameter, vessel area, vessel frequency, ray height and ray width. Mean vessel area increased from 4199.14 µm2 in young seedlings to 62569.05 µm2 in mature trees. Mean vessel diameter also increased from 126.43 µm in young seedlings to 276.58 µm in mature trees. Mean ray height and mean ray width were found to be 466.98 µm and 34.58 µm in young seedlings and 498.38 µm and 52.97 µm in mature trees respectively. Mean fibre length and fibre wall thickness were found to be 801.13 µm and 3.27 µm in young seedlings and 993.10 µm and 4.37 µm in mature trees Questionnaire survey conducted in Thrissur and Palakkad district had 46.34 per cent and 39 per cent positive response respectively towards growing jack tree as a timber species in homegardens. There is an increasing preference for dwarf varieties over tall indigenous varieties among the respondents in both districts. The increasing trend of planting dwarf varieties can have an adverse effect on the easy availability of good quality wood from our homesteads. Therefore, there is a pertinent need to protect the existing high quality tall varieties of jack trees.