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ECOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF ZIZYPHUS NUMMULARIA TO BIOTIC OPENING UP OF THE FORESTED COVER
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Author(s):
JASLEEN KAUR
Vol - 9, Issue- 2 ,
Page(s) : 62 - 73
(2019 )
DOI : https://doi.org/10.32804/RJSET
Abstract
Zizyphus nummularia is a conspicuous component of vegetation of arid and semiarid regions of Northwestern India. Infraspecifc variations were observed in this species. The objectives of the present study on Z. nummularia were to (i) study its morphological and chemical characteristics, (ii) analyse selected properties of soil associated with it and (iii) study the effect of anthropogenic disturbances on its distribution and chemical ecology. Young leaves were analysed for leaf area, leaf weight, leaf specific weight, ash Ca, Mg, Na, K, Zn, Cu, P, organic N and phenolics. Leaves were also screened for phenolics using HPLC. Soils associated with Z. nummularia were analysed for pH, electrical conductivity, HCO3, Cl, organic carbon, organic N, NH4-N, NO3-N, PO4, Zn, Cu, Mg, Na, K, Ca and total phenolics. On the basis of correlated assessment on leaf and fruit morphology, all the plant sampled could be grouped into two infraspecific forms, namely elliptical and orbicular. Results indicate that these two forms occupied different microhabitat. Elliptical form is associated with relatively nutrient poor soil when compared to orbicular form occupying a nutrient rich soil. With the opening up of the forest cover, leaf area and weight decreases in both the forms whereas nutrient content (Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, organic N) increases in both the forms. Also, total phenolics and flavonoid content increases. With increase in anthropogenic disturbances, stress on both the forms increases.
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