Review of Plant Studies

Geospatial differences in organic carbon stock, structural and hydraulic properties of a coarse-textured soil under oil palm plantation

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Cropping systems can impact changes in the physicochemical conditions of soils across a given landmass, thereby influencing decisions on management strategies for soils under such use. The research was carried out to ascertain the spatial variation of organic carbon stock, structural, and hydraulic properties of soil under oil palm plantation. The research was laid out in a randomized complete block design. Nine replicates each of disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were randomly collected from the area at a depth of 0 – 20 cm. Soil parameters were determined in a laboratory, and data obtained were analyzed for spatial variation using geographical information system software. Organic carbon stock varied from 40 – 65 tons/ha, bulk density varied from 1.15 – 1.35 mg/m³, saturated hydraulic conductivity varied from 2.70 – 3.05 cm/min, clay flocculation index varied from 64 – 70%, clay dispersion index varied from 30 – 36%, dispersion ratio varied from 5 – 25%, aggregated silt + clay varied from 16.5 – 20.5%, and mean weight diameter varied from 1.10 – 1.50 mm. Oil palm plantation influences the spatial condition of organic carbon stock and structural-hydraulic properties of soils under its coverage. Consequently, soil management strategies for the land must be designed to address the unique qualities of the various regions of the landmass.

Invasive pest and diseases in Indian agriculture: Management and case studies

Manjot Kaur, Muskan Bhullar, Ramneek Kaur — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Alien invasive insect pests threaten global food security, ecosystems, human health, and economies, with their introduction becoming inevitable amid globalization and liberalized trade. India has experienced a sharp rise in such invasions, from 10 recorded pests over a century (1889–1989) to over 15 in the last decade (2013–2023), exacerbated by the absence of natural enemies and delayed management. This paper critically reviews the status, entry pathways, and impacts of invasive pests in India, evaluates regulatory frameworks, and proposes strategic management measures. The study synthesizes documented evidence of recent invasions, including the Cassava Mealybug, Fall Armyworm, and South American Tomato Pinworm, alongside new alerts like the Apple Leaf Blotch Miner and Mango Soft Scale. Findings reveal that India’s porous borders, diverse agro-climates, and crop vulnerabilities facilitate pest establishment, leading to severe agricultural losses. Despite existing regulations, enforcement gaps, and rapid trade increases hinder effective containment. The paper highlights the urgent need for enhanced surveillance, early detection systems, and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Practical implications include strengthening phytosanitary measures, fostering international collaboration, and promoting research on biological control agents. By addressing regulatory weaknesses and adopting proactive mitigation approaches, India can reduce the ecological and economic risks posed by invasive pests, safeguarding its agrarian economy and global trade interests.

Evaluating community perception and the impact of the billion tree afforestation project on key medicinal plants in Buner forest division, KP, Pakistan

Faisal Khalid — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Pakistan is a country of remarkable ecological and cultural diversity, featuring a wide range of climates, landscapes, and rich biodiversity from towering mountains and vast deserts to fertile plains and lush forests. To gain a better understanding of community perspectives, identify the primary threats to medicinal plants, and assess the impact of the Billion Tree Afforestation Project (BTAP) on medicinal plant conservation in the Buner Forest Division, this study was conducted for the first time in the region. A total of 28 sample plots were surveyed inside 14 BTAP-established closures, while another 28 plots were assessed in areas where no BTAP activities had taken place. In addition, a rapid assessment approach was employed, involving interviews with 200 local community members. The results revealed that the relative density of medicinal plant species was significantly higher inside the closures (92.25%) compared to outside (7.75%). Similarly, the relative cover of medicinal plants was greater within the closures (97.83%) than in non-protected areas (2.17%). The relative frequency of medicinal plant species also followed the same pattern, with a higher value inside the closures (83.46%) versus outside (16.54%). These findings demonstrate that the establishment of closures has a positive impact on the regeneration of medicinal plants and trees. By restricting activities such as grazing, browsing, cutting, and plant collection, closures contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation. Preserving and protecting our natural heritage is essential, as it plays a vital role in sustaining the ecological balance and supporting local livelihoods.